At UN ESCAP, I contributed to a multi-country research project on social exclusion in Asia during its analytical phase. Working with research partners and data specialists, I helped examine survey findings from six countries and assess whether the original hypothesis on exclusion and social unrest was supported by the evidence. The analysis suggested that the expected relationship was not emerging in a straightforward way, which prompted a rethink of the project’s direction. Although my initial role was focused on one part of the analysis, I also contributed to discussions that helped reshape the study’s next phase. My contribution was later acknowledged as part of the wider research team.