2026 Working Policy Papers
The AASSREC Working Policy Paper Series demonstrates the value of translating rigorous social science research into actionable policy guidance. This collection brings together nine peer-reviewed papers authored by researchers and practitioners from over a dozen countries across the Indo-Pacific region, addressing priority challenges in climate resilience, gender equality, indigenous knowledge systems, and intergenerational equity.
Each paper reflects sustained cross-border collaboration and a shared commitment to multinational academic research and policy practice. Open access publication supports AASSREC’s ongoing mission to strengthen evidence-informed multidisciplinary policymaking and regional knowledge exchange throughout the Indo-Pacific.
Climate Change, Gendered Vulnerabilities and Livelihood Resilience in Mountain Communities of South and Central Asia
Authors: Balwant Singh Mehta, Falendra Kumar, Yogesh Ranjit, Tsering Tashi, Anvar Nizamov, Subodh Kumar & Varsha Susan Mathew
Designing Age-Friendly Cities: Applying Blue Zones Principles Through Indigenous Knowledge in India
Authors: Nidhi Mishra, Ravi Shanker Datti, Tushar Singh, Vijyendra Pandey, Sri Nitya Ravi, Maneela Sirisety, Ashutosh Tewari & Rupa Jawal
Towards Ending Acid Violence: A Multidisciplinary Policy Framework to Promote Gender Equality
Authors: Shalini Mittal, Tushar Singh, Sunil Kumar Verma, Bhawna Tushir & Sakshi Mathur
Bridging Healthcare Systems: Integrating Indigenous Healing Practices into Public Health Policy Lessons from the Banga and Bhariya Communities of India
Authors: Swati Shastri, Mayank Tomar & Sanjana Sharma Marwaha
Weaving Wisdom Across Borders: Indigenous Knowledge Systems for Sustainable and Inclusive Development in the Asia-Pacific
Authors: Rajesh Tandon, Rabi Raj & Arjan de Haan
Digital Pathways to Inclusion: ICT for Intergenerational Equity and Indigenous Knowledge Preservation in Sri Lanka
Author: Hemamali Tennakoon
Nature-Based Solutions for Water Security and Social Resilience in the Lower Mekong Basin: Evidence, Governance, and Policy Pathways
Authors: Phan Thanh Thanh, Nguyen Dinh Tuan, Nguyen Huu Minh, Thai Huynh Phuong Lan, Aphiradee Wongsiri, Wanichcha Narongchai, Por Narith, Chourn Vireak, Kry Solany & Tran Che Linh
Participatory Learning of Indigenous Women as a Policy Pathway to Revitalize Indigenous Knowledge Systems in the Mekong
Authors: Sudarat Tuntivivat, Maiyer Xiong, Syed Azharuddin, Dorian Winter & Jeffery Carlson
