In the midst of a crucial transition period, Latin American governments must consider political, economic, and social challenges through the lens of strategic foresight in order to best prepare for the region’s future, said Jason Marczak, director of the Latin America Economic Growth Initiative at the Atlantic Council.
Marczak joined Peter Engelke, a senior fellow with the Council’s Strategic Foresight Initiative, on November 29 for a Facebook Live discussion on their forthcoming report—Latin America and Caribbean 2030: Future Scenarios. Outlining a number of potential trajectories for the region based on current policy decisions, they emphasized the need to consider uncertainties and drivers of change in both regional and global contexts, and account for how these circumstances may affect the future of Latin America.
With regard to the future of free trade throughout Latin America, Marczak emphasized the importance of regional integration and described how Asian markets will play a significant role in the changing dynamic. Engelke stressed the need to consider changing demographics and the ways in which the age and education levels of the population will impact the economy. Both experts agreed that good governance will be key to the region’s success.
Ultimately, according to Marczak, Latin America must “think through what are the policies that need to be put in place now so the region can set itself on the trajectory to achieving the best-case scenario looking out to 2030.”
Rachel Ansley is an editorial assistant at the Atlantic Council.