The first-ever Atlas of Palliative Care Development in the Asia-Pacific marks a turning point in our shared effort to relieve health-related suffering across one of the world’s most diverse regions. Covering more than 40 countries and areas, including many Pacific Islands, this publication offers the most comprehensive and systematic evaluation to date.
Created under the guidance of the WHO Indicators for Palliative Care Development, and led by the ATLANTES Research Group at the Institute for Culture and Society (ICS) at the University of Navarra in collaboration with the Asia Pacific Hospice Palliative Care Network (APHN), this Atlas sheds light on key advances and major gaps across the region. It serves as a crucial resource for advocates, professionals, and decision-makers alike. This research will be presented on Thursday April 24th at the Asia Pacific Hospice Palliative Care Conference 2025 in Kuching, Malaysia.
What does the Atlas show? There’s progress to celebrate: Thailand’s national integration model is inspiring; Australia and Singapore lead in advance care planning; China has expanded services rapidly, reaching over 2,000 across its provinces. Still, many areas—especially Pacific Island countries—face serious limitations in services, education, access to opioids, and policy implementation.
The Atlas provides not just data, but insight. Through comparative analysis, infographics, and country reports, it helps advocates and policymakers benchmark efforts, identify next steps, and coordinate regional strategies. It also highlights the essential role of education, research, and community empowerment in achieving universal access to palliative care.
This is more than a report. It is a milestone in building a future where palliative care is recognized as a human right and integrated into health systems for all. Now is the time to act—together.
Let’s make the promise of palliative care for all a reality.
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