The Assistant General of the United Nations Heraldo Muñoz discussed last Wednesday economic policies for Latin America that would lead to a more equitable social order.
"The key to success in Latin America is that we have to reinforce those policies aimed at reducing inequality, making a more collective and a more coherent society that favors economic growth and social cohesion," Muñoz said.
Muñoz received a doctorate from the Josef Korbel School of International Studies and has served as the ambassador from Chile to the United Nations. His remarks were attended by Chancellor Robert E. Coombe, faculty and students.
Chile, he said, has some of the highest levels of inequality in the world. The UN's Regional Human Development Report for Latin America and the Caribbean lists it as one of the worst countries in terms of living standards based on levels of equality.
Muñoz said, "Inequality is one of the main traits that defines the history of Latin America and the Caribbean. A significant and persistent inequality, accompanied by low social mobility, has led the region to fall into an 'inequality trap'; a vicious circle that is difficult to break."
