Economic Development

Book Chapter - Link (English) - 2023

This chapter addresses the diagnosis of sustainable development in Latin America, highlighting the economic and social inequalities exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and the impact of extreme climatic events. The analysis includes probable and desired future scenarios, emphasizing the importance of transformative and collaborative public policies. The need for regional adaptations to mitigate risks, promote sustainability, and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for 2030 and beyond is underscored.

Working Paper - Link (English) - 2018

Since the early 2000s, Latin America has seen significant improvements in income distribution, a notable shift in a region historically marked by persistent inequality. Despite variations across countries, this decline in inequality is due to labor market developments and more progressive government transfers. However, economic growth has slowed, reducing the pace of progress. To regain momentum, public policies must be reexamined to transform productive structures, advance human capital, and create high-quality jobs. ECLAC emphasizes that equality should be central to development, showing that reducing inequality and economic growth are compatible. This paper reviews recent inequality trends, explanatory factors, and the limited redistributive capacity of the region's tax systems.

Book Chapter- Link (Spanish) - 2016

The current global economy drives unsustainable production and consumption patterns, heavily reliant on natural resources and fossil fuels, leading to significant environmental degradation. Latin America and the Caribbean are integrated into this system through various economic channels, exacerbating these unsustainable practices. Despite economic growth reducing poverty, it has also intensified negative externalities like pollution and resource depletion. As the region faces economic slowdowns, there's a risk of weakening environmental and labor regulations. However, regional integration and coordinated efforts can help manage these challenges, fostering sustainable development and enhancing competitiveness by promoting environmentally friendly policies and infrastructure.

Journal Article - Link (English) - 2014

Determinants of economic development and especially the linkages between economic development and logistics performance are topics of growing interest within the literature, both in economic growth theory and maritime studies. This article presents estimations of different probit models in an attempt to explain the probability of a country being economically developed based on a number of traditional explanatory variables (including natural endowments, economic openness, and institutional framework, among others), along with logistics performance. The main finding shows that logistics performance is closely related to the probability of a country being developed.

Working Paper - Link (Spanish) - 2014

Development planning in Latin America and the Caribbean began systematically in the mid-20th century, spurred by the signing of the Punta del Este Charter in 1962. Over three decades, planning evolved with development, influenced by internal factors and changing international circumstances. However, planning lost relevance in the 1980s and 1990s due to the economic crisis and the adoption of neoliberal policies. In the 21st century, planning has reemerged as a key tool for integral development. This document analyzes the evolution of regional planning from its inception to the early 21st century.

Book - Link (Spanish) - 2014

This book, which was prepared to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Latin American Institute for Economic and Social Planning (ILPES), introduces economic development themes related to planning, foresight, and public management.

Book Chapter - Link (Spanish) - 2014

This chapter discusses the evolution of planning and its role in fostering development and reducing inequality in Latin America and the Caribbean over the past 20 years. It highlights the region's recent economic growth, driven by external demand while acknowledging persistent high levels of poverty and inequality. The chapter emphasizes the need for structural changes to achieve sustainable development with equality, calling for more active state participation, higher-quality public policies, and practical, participatory planning processes that involve various social agents. It argues that these are essential for creating a strategic vision that promotes inclusive growth and long-term development.