Economic and Social Progress in Latin America: 1995 Report (Inter-American Development Bank)

The Inter-American Development Bank's annual economic and social progress report is a resource guide to the Latin American and Caribbean economies. The 1995 report features updated summaries and ten-year statistical profiles of regional and national economic performance. The statistical appendix includes year-by-year consolidated data since the mid-1980s on population, national accounts, central government finances, balance of payments and external debt. The "Special Section" explores the policy challenges posed by macroeconomic shocks in Latin America. The study examines how volatility hinders economic growth and argues that the poor are particularly imperiled by macroeconomic shocks. Policy recommendations focus on reducing an economy's exposure to external shocks, ensuring the necessary macroeconomic adjustments and protecting those who are most vulnerable.