Latin America & the Caribbean

Although Latin America and the Caribbean have made progress towards the consolidation of democracy and better access to education, health care, and basic services, the region continues to confront challenges resulting from the effects of violent conflict, socioeconomic inequality and natural disasters.

Illicit trafficking of small arms has contributed to high rates of violent crime and the region registers the highest levels of homicide in the world.

Because Latin America and the Caribbean experience the second-highest incidence of flooding, landslides, earthquakes and droughts in the world, the region is continuously dealing with natural disasters.

In this context and through the development of strategies and programs, the UNDP:

• Promotes economic and human development
• Assists governments in controlling small arms and preventing armed violence
• Helps communities prevent, prepare for and recover from natural disasters
• Supports the participation of women and marginalized populations
• Assists in conflict resolution

Photo: UNDP/Haiti - Water system after hurricanes Gustave, Hanna and Ike

• News

• Related Links

  Regional Centre Panama

  Red Desastres
  This website presents events, news, publications and links to other agencies, projects, strategies, databases and international organizations. It also includes a video library focusing on disaster-related issues, a repository containing key documents and information relating to projects in the region.

  Diálogo Democrático
  This project offers an effective and high-quality response to UNDP Country Offices as they endeavor to meet the needs expressed by governments and societies. The project facilitates efforts to prevent conflicts and strengthen democratic governance.