Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) is a region of remarkable diversity, creativity, and potential. Yet longstanding social and economic inequalities continue to hinder the full realisation of inclusive growth and upward mobility for millions of people. Disparities in access to quality education, opportunities for skills development, and pathways to productive employment remain among the most significant barriers to building more cohesive and prosperous societies.
The OECD Latin America and the Caribbean Regional Programme (LACRP), launched in 2016, works to support the region in advancing more inclusive and sustainable development. The Programme promotes dialogue and collaboration between LAC countries and the OECD across four interconnected priorities: increasing productivity, strengthening institutions, enhancing social inclusion, and ensuring environmental sustainability. These pillars guide our collective efforts to inform and support evidence-based policy reforms throughout the region.
This publication is a concrete contribution to the priority on social inclusion, reflecting the shared commitment of LAC countries to expand opportunities and reduce inequalities. It responds to the recommendations set by Ministers and high-level representatives during the OECD-LAC Ministerial Summit held in Bogotá in 2024. Under the theme “Productive Inclusion Revisited,” participants called for renewed action to confront structural barriers to equality, particularly those affecting the ability of individuals and communities to access high-quality education, acquire relevant skills, and participate fully in labour markets and society.
Drawing on internationally comparable data, evidence, and policy analysis, this report assesses the progress made across LAC countries while also shedding light on the challenges that continue to demand urgent attention. It highlights the importance of ensuring equitable access to quality education and strengthening the relevance and quality of skills systems; and designing policies that enable all learners, regardless of socio-economic background, to develop the capabilities they need to succeed in an evolving world of work.
We hope that the insights and policy recommendations presented in this publication will support governments, educators, employers, and civil society partners across the region in their efforts to advance social mobility and reduce inequalities. Achieving these goals is essential to unlocking the region’s human potential and building more resilient, inclusive, and prosperous societies for the future.