ESCAP's core functions
Core functions
Working with ESCAP
ESCAP's comparative advantages
As part of the United Nations system, ESCAP provides a neutral and impartial platform and leverages its network and collaborations with other UN agencies, programmes, and funds.
Comparative Advantages
Examples / Resources
1
UN SYSTEM
- ESCAP is the regional arm of the United Nations development system in Asia and the Pacific.
- ESCAP supports United Nations collaboration at the regional level through its role in the Regional Collaborative Platform for Asia and the Pacific in cooperation with the resident coordinators and the United Nations country teams.
2
REGIONAL FOCUS
- ESCAP has nearly 80 years of accumulated regional knowledge and expertise.
- ESCAP tackles unique development challenges, offering tailored solutions for regional and transboundary issues.
3
INCLUSIVE INTERGOVERNMENTAL PLATFORM
- ESCAP, a member State-driven organization, fosters consensus among its 53 members* and 9 associate members.
* By diplomatic note dated 30 January 2026, the United States of America notified the Executive Secretary of ESCAP of its decision to withdraw from the Commission. - ESCAP uses its convening power to drive collaborative dialogue and initiatives to develop and promote regional policy and regulatory frameworks for inclusive sustainable development in Asia and the Pacific.
4
MULTIDISCIPLINARY TECHNICAL AND POLICY EXPERTISE
- ESCAP provides multidisciplinary technical and policy expertise to address diverse regional challenges.
- ESCAP offers tailored programmes that support its member States in finding holistic solutions to complex development questions.
5
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IMPACT THROUGH DIVERSE PARTNERSHIPS
- ESCAP is an effective development partner, collaborating with a range of stakeholders to achieve shared development goals through tailored partnership modalities.
- Through its South-South cooperation initiatives, ESCAP promotes innovative approaches to address challenges and identifies effective solutions that can be scaled up and replicated across the region.
ESCAP's approach to partnerships is based on:
- Shared priorities and interests: matching ESCAP’s strengths with member States’ needs and with partners’ priorities.
- Engagement: working together on project design, implementation and evaluation.
- Communication: regular informal and formal periodical consultations.
- Accountability: transparent performance and financial reporting.
- Evaluation and learning: ensuring continuous improvement and better results.