Annual Meeting 2007 - Inter-American Development Bank

Friday, 16 March - 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Salón Los Lagos -

The countries of the region have among the highest levels of inequality in the world, both in terms of income distribution and productive and non-productive asset distribution. Social exclusion in the region exacerbates this already pronounced income and asset inequality. Groups that are socially excluded on the basis of race, gender, age, or uncertain health experience poverty, stigmatization, and discrimination and show the lowest levels of progress with respect to MDG indicators. Furthermore, these excluded individuals have no voice in or influence on the processes that determine policies for structural change. The impact of the high levels of wealth inequality on development in the region is wide-ranging and profound. The region's reform agenda is unfinished, particularly in terms of significantly increasing access to credit, to land tenure, and to quality education and health services. On the other hand, fiscal reform is pending in the region, regressive expenditures are being rolled back, and targeted public programs that have been shown to broaden access are being expanded. Giving a voice to socially excluded groups is a virtuous circle that begins with opening up access and channels for democratic participation.

This seminar will explore the characteristics of this unfinished agenda and efforts by governments and civil society alike to further improve access to assets and opportunities.

Contact: Carola Alvarez ( CAROLAA@iadb.org )