Concept in Definition ABC

The acronym ECLAC refers to the Economic Commission for the Latin America and the Caribbean, a body integrated into the UN that was established in 1948. It currently has its headquarters in the city of Santiago de Chile and there are several offices in other Latin American cities.

The main objective of this institution It is to promote the progress of Latin America as a whole and, at the same time, to strengthen the economic and social ties between the nations of the region.

ECLAC's strategy throughout history

Starting in the 1950s, this body promoted an economic model of a developmental type, since at that time in this geographical area the different nations were in precarious conditions, especially in relation to the low levels from consumption and with a wide range of social problems.

With the strategy Inspired by economic developmentalism, there was an annual growth of almost 3% of GDP until the 1980s and, in parallel, a significant reduction in the levels of poverty of the population Latin America total.

The key to achieving this progress was a gradual modernization of the industry.

As a complement to the strategy of industrialization, ECLAC has promoted other strategies: promoting exports, making adjustments economic conditions to overcome the problems associated with indebtedness and the incorporation of equity social in the processes of production.

A thought center

ECLAC launches all kinds of research and studies on economic and social issues. At the same time, it provides technical assistance to different governments and prepares proposals on matters related to public management.

The ECLAC commission is made up of a total of 44 member states, which meet every two years to evaluate the tasks carried out and promote new objectives and lines of action.

The overall approach of this body is to promote economic development in a comprehensive way, since that economic growth must be associated with the principles of social equity and sustainability environmental

Photo: Fotolia - Lefteris Papaulakis