Publication

This paper offers a high level survey of demographic, economic and environmental trends that are poised to shape the development chances in Latin America and the Caribbean during the coming decade. The second part of the paper focuses on four key issue areas that merit increased attention from USAID. These include climate change adaptation, the challenges of small economies in Central America and the Caribbean, indigenous and minority issues, and urban issues. The ongoing need for stronger growth policies, including a focus on supporting innovation, is also briefly assessed as a cross-cutting issue. All other policy areas depend on its success or failure. Preliminary suggestions for USAID action are identified in each focal area.