Development beyond Economics: Economic and Social Progress in Latin America: 2000 Report (Inter-American Development Bank)

This special issue looks to a new millennium in Latin America by examining development beyond economics--that is, human development that not only raises incomes but improves health and education, provides better housing, upgrades urban living conditions, deters crime, and increases political participation. Over the past four decades, Latin America has made giant strides in some of these social and political areas, yet still lags behind in others. Life expectancy has increased 13 years, illiteracy and fertility have been halved, and democracy has taken hold throughout the region. However, Latin America continues to be plagued by violence and remains the most unequal region in the world in terms of income distribution. Unprecedented migration to sprawling and often inhospitable cities has exacerbated poverty for millions.

The 2000 Report compares Latin America's progress in human development with other regions of the world. It examines how these developments have been shaped by demographic changes, institutional and political transformations, and geography. The report also features an annual assessment of economic and social trends, statistical profiles of regional and national economic performance; and year-by-year consolidated data for the past decade on population; national accounts; central government finances; balance of payments; external debt; and prices, money and credit, and international reserves.