Economic Inequality in Latin America and the Caribbean

"This is a timely and important book. It shows that inequality in Latin America and the Caribbean is the result of institutions, policy choices, and political structures that continue to shape opportunity and exclusion. The volume makes a compelling case that tackling inequality requires coherent public policy and sustained political will to tackle these constraints. It emphasizes climate change as a multiplier of injustice, especially in small island and highly vulnerable contexts, and underlines the disproportionate burdens borne by women, indigenous peoples, and marginalized communities. This book is essential reading for anyone interested in inclusive development, resilience, and social progress in the region."

Milasoa Chérel-Robson, PhD, Economist/Development Coordination Officer, UN Resident Coordinator’s Office (RCO), Haiti

"Few books capture the complexity of inequality in Latin America as clearly and courageously as this one. Challenging both faith in market solutions and the celebrated redistributive record of progressive governments, the authors reveal how extractivist development models, structural inequalities, and fragile institutions continue to reproduce injustice. The book ranges widely—from climate injustice and education gaps to misinformation, violent crime, and the policy failures exposed by economic and environmental shocks. By questioning conventional wisdom, including the limits of Kuznets-style thinking, it offers a powerful and timely analysis. This is essential reading for anyone seeking to understand—and seriously address—the region’s stubbornly persistent inequality."

Lizbeth Navas-Aleman, Global Value Chains specialist and Research Associate, Institute of Development Studies (IDS), Sussex University, UK

“Economic Inequality in Latin America and the Caribbean: Policies and Solutions for Meaningful Change pushes the envelope on the policy front, making the case for greater progressive public policy within the overarching framework of universal social protection, including active labour market interventions that address structural inequality and are responsive to economic and environmental risks. The book is a must-read for students and policymakers in the Global South."

Dillon Alleyne, Professor of Applied Economics, Director (interim) of the UWI-FRC, Honorary Research Fellow, SALISES, UWI Mona, Jamaica

"Economic Inequality in Latin America and the Caribbean: Policies and Solutions for Meaningful Change offers a timely and incisive examination of one of the region’s most persistent challenges. Bringing together leading scholars, the volume combines rigorous empirical analysis with thoughtful policy proposals addressing macroeconomic structures, sectoral dynamics, and climate justice. The book makes a compelling case for integrated social protection and inclusive development strategies, providing both analytical depth and practical insight for scholars, policymakers, and practitioners concerned with reducing inequality and advancing equitable growth in the region."

Sangeeta K Bishop, Ph.D., Professor of Economics, Borough of Manhattan Community College/CUNY, USA