The Economic Commission for Asia and the Far East (ECAFE) was a regional body established by the United Nations aimed at promoting economic cooperation and development in the Asia-Pacific region. Founded in 1947, it acted as a forum for member countries to discuss common economic issues, share knowledge and expertise, and coordinate regional initiatives.
ECAFE's primary objective was to foster economic growth and social progress across its member countries, which included nations in East Asia, Southeast Asia, South Asia, and the Pacific. The commission played a vital role in advising member nations on policies and strategies to promote industrialization, agricultural development, infrastructure improvement, and regional integration.
ECAFE facilitated extensive research and analysis on various socio-economic dimensions, such as trade, investment, transportation, energy, and population growth, in order to guide member countries towards sustainable development goals. It also provided technical assistance and capacity-building support to address specific challenges faced by its members and organized conferences, workshops, and training programs to enhance regional cooperation.
In 1974, ECAFE underwent a structural transformation and was renamed the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP). The transformation aimed to broaden its mandate and strengthen its role in advocating regional development and cooperation. Despite the name change, ECAFE's legacy as an essential catalyst for economic progress in Asia and the Far East remains significant.
