Latin America: What went wrong in the decade of prosperity?

Lena Lavinas
Professor of economics at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro.

Between 2003 and 2013, Latin America experienced an unprecedented period of combined economic growth and reduction of poverty and inequality. The causes of this were found in the favorable international context with booming commodity prices, but also macroeconomic stability and a number of progressive policies that sought to better distribute resources and incorporate many millions into the market society.

Nonetheless, structural heterogeneity has not been overcome. After 2013, economic growth has stalled, whereas extractivism continues to drive exports and economic activity, with dramatic consequences for indigenous minorities and other vulnerable groups. Poverty and inequality indicators are on the rise in many countries and the wave of optimism and highs has been replaced by widespread concern about growing unemployment, political turmoil and corruption scandals.

In this lecture, Brazilian economist Lena Lavinas provides insight into the economics of the possible u-turn, and links it to the political dynamics, with a starting point in her home country.

This keynote is part of the NorLARNet Conference 2016, which will take place at Grand Hotel Terminus in Bergen 1 - 2 September 2016.

The lecture is open for all interested, without any previous registration.