The last quarter of 2019 shocked Latin America with massive demonstrations on the streets of Chile, Colombia, Ecuador and other countries. Protesters had many demands, but there was a common theme: equal treatment, better opportunities for all, and a more level playing field. Why did these perfectly valid demands erupt like a volcano after two decades of progress and a … [Read more...] about Understanding Social Unrest in Latin America
#inequality
Combating Inequality in the Covid-19 Era
Latin America and the Caribbean is the world's most unequal region, after sub-Saharan Africa, and income inequality there is getting worse as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. Because of the expected long-term effects of the pandemic, inequality is likely to continue worsening for many years to come if the right policies are not put into place. This would be a tragedy for a … [Read more...] about Combating Inequality in the Covid-19 Era
Towards Inclusive Growth in Latin America and the Caribbean
As 2019 draws to a close, Latin America and the Caribbean faces at least four big challenges. First, growth this year is well below potential. Second, potential growth is low. Third, the region remains subject to large shocks. And fourth, despite recent gains, inequality remains high and aspirations are outstripping the meagre outlook, contributing to protests across the region … [Read more...] about Towards Inclusive Growth in Latin America and the Caribbean
When Inequality is Baked into the System
Hundreds of thousands of protesters have poured into the streets in recent weeks from Chile and Colombia to Lebanon and Iraq. Transport hubs have been destroyed, stores looted, and government institutions attacked. Dozens have been killed. The immediate causes of the protests have been diverse, ranging from price hikes to rumored changes in laws affecting rights and … [Read more...] about When Inequality is Baked into the System
Ensuring that the Gains from Trade are Inclusive and Sustainable
Thirty years ago, as part of their development strategy, and after many years of protectionism, the countries of Latin America and the Caribbean embarked on a process of ambitious trade liberalization. This was only one of many different reforms made in the framework of the Washington consensus. But it was without question the most important one. Tariffs were eliminated, … [Read more...] about Ensuring that the Gains from Trade are Inclusive and Sustainable