The Asia-Pacific region faces multiple crises such as slowdown in developed economies, reduced demand for regional exports, higher costs of capital, and the volatility of commodity markets. This book highlights the increasing trend of natural disasters affecting the region through disruptions to production and supply chains of goods and services as economies of the region become more integrated, and examines the links between the impact of natural disasters and economic shocks. It pays particular attention to policy options that protect and empower the poor and vulnerable, prevent them from falling deeper into poverty and empower them to withstand all forms of crises. It reviews and analyzes how to enhance regional cooperation in Asia and the Pacific in order to protect hard-earned development gains made thus far, including progress towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals.