National governments are chosen and act with a responsibility to protect economic, social, and cultural rights for all people, especially marginalized populations. Even when resources are limited, targeted and cost-effective programs can help ensure that those most in need are not left behind. 

However, the reality is that many countries lack the economic strength and institutional capacity to fully uphold these rights. As a result, what is often treated as a social issue is also deeply connected to economic conditions. Weaker economies, limited opportunities, and ineffective institutions can prevent people from achieving economic freedom and escaping poverty. 

Therefore, international lending institutions have played an influential role in shaping economic policy in developing nations, and their approaches should be examined for whether they expand opportunity or unintentionally reinforce existing barriers. 

Looking at both the Indo Pacific and the world at large, it is the responsibility of ECOFIN to address these challenges. ECOFIN should consider policies that strengthen local economies, institutions, and individual economic opportunity while also focusing on short-term relief and the necessity for these lending institutions.