Development in Latin America: Current Challenges and Future Perspectives

Development in Latin America. Current Challenges and Future Perspectives 

Date: 26th and 27th November 2026 

Location: Instituto de Estudios Internacionales, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile 

Development economics is not what it used to be. It has been a long time since Hirschman’s The Rise and Decline of Development Economics. The discipline now seems to focus increasingly on highly specific topics and places, while broader perspectives have gradually receded. This narrowing of the debate is particularly evident in Latin America, where development is too often reduced to economic growth, and growth to macroeconomic stability. But is that enough? Do all countries have to follow the same path? Many of the questions that traditionally shaped Latin American development thinking are now largely absent from mainstream debates. 

The sessions are designed to foster dialogue between young researchers and policymakers, recognizing that addressing the region’s development challenges requires a continuous exchange between academic research and the practical realities of policy design and implementation. 

We particularly welcome submissions that address: 

• (de)industrialisation  

• the functioning of multinational companies 

• techno-productive heterogeneities 

• competition in the international market, exports 

• development policies  

Eligibility 

Young researchers and early-career policymakers are encouraged to apply. We welcome submissions that engage with the broad themes of the event and explore development challenges and policy issues in Latin America. 

It is expected that selected candidates will attend the entire event. 

Submission Guidelines 

Submissions may be based on work in progress. We welcome contributions at different stages of research, from early-stage proposals to manuscripts presenting advanced findings. 

Extended abstracts should not exceed 1,500 words and must clearly outline the research question, literature review/theoretical framework, methodology, main findings (where applicable), and references.  

Submissions must be written in English, Spanish, or Portuguese. 

19th October: deadline for extended abstract submission. 

26th October: notification of acceptance.  

Funding 

Limited financial support -for accommodation or travel expenses- may be available for selected participants. More details on funding opportunities will be provided upon acceptance. 

Preliminar Program  

Day 1  

14h – 14,30hs: Registration and YSI opening 

Session 1 14.30 – 16;  Working papers presentations  (WPP)

Break 

Session 2 16.30 – 17.30; Lecture 

Day 2 

Session 3 9.30 – 11;  WPP 

Break 

Session 4 11.30 – 13; Roundtable  

Break

Session 5. 14.30 – 16;  WPP