Over the last four decades, Latin America has drafted an astounding number of new constitutions relative to most other regions of the world. Between 1978 and 2008, it generated 15 new constitutions and numerous constitutional reforms. Many of these transformations helped governments move beyond an authoritarian past or deepened already existing democratic systems. Some of them … [Read more...] about Latin American Constitutions: The Struggle for Pluralism and Stability
Latin America and Trump: the IDB’s Chief Economist Identifies Potential Opportunities for the Region
Latin America, like the rest of the world, cautiously awaits the beginning of Donald Trump's presidency in the United States. There is great anticipation to see if the president elect fulfills his campaign promises—many of them already played down—and how his government's policies affect the region. In an interview with the Spanish daily El País, the IDB's chief economist, José … [Read more...] about Latin America and Trump: the IDB’s Chief Economist Identifies Potential Opportunities for the Region
Chile’s Constitutional Reform: IDB Seminar Aims to Get It Right
Since the late 1980s, numerous Latin American countries have ushered in sweeping new constitutions to forge more inclusive, representative and just societies. In some places, like Brazil and Argentina, these constitutions have helped turn the page on the past and complete the transition from dictatorship to democracy. In others, like Colombia, they have targeted sources of … [Read more...] about Chile’s Constitutional Reform: IDB Seminar Aims to Get It Right
Better Tools for Poor Kids Choosing Schools
Sooner or later all teenagers consider who they want to be when they grow up. It is a defining moment for their sense of self and future, and intimately linked with their ability to seize what they want from life. Will I be a cabdriver or carpenter? Clerk or cashier? Or can I just as easily be an accountant, architect or engineer? For middle class and wealthy children, these … [Read more...] about Better Tools for Poor Kids Choosing Schools
Researchers Rally to Combat Pollution and Disease
The rivers run thick with sewage and agricultural chemicals. They flow with detergents, carry fertilizers, and yield pathogens that spread diarrheal diseases, hepatitis and other infections. Latin America has nearly one-third of the world's fresh water resources, with high mountain glaciers and grand rivers like the Amazon and Orinoco. But, according to the United Nations … [Read more...] about Researchers Rally to Combat Pollution and Disease