Social Policy and Social Change in 21st Century Latin America

How are social rights won in Latin America? After decades of increasing income inequalities, Latin America experienced an impressive and unexpected expansion in social policy. The arrival to government of Left parties across the continent in the early 21st century raised hopes of progress toward universalism in social policy. Yet, persistent inequities across sectors of the population undermined progress toward a universalist welfare regime. This course offers an overview of the general trends, achievements, and shortcomings of these developments, as well as the social forces and historical circumstances that determined these changes.