Leveraging Global Drivers of Change

Global shifts – such as the election of a new US administration, challenges within the EU and China’s adaptation to the new normal – will have a political and economic impact on the region. The question is how Latin America can best respond to these external factors and leverage its participation in global platforms to advance its priorities. In this context, Argentina is preparing to chair the G20, countries along the Pacific coast are continuing to develop an enhanced trade and cooperation space, and the region is taking up its COP21 commitments and building a new urban agenda post-UN Habitat III. Home to some of the world’s largest cities and biggest urban populations, Latin America could greatly benefit from urban policies that ensure cities are drivers of productivity and growth. The Fourth Industrial Revolution – which builds on digital and converging technologies such as artificial intelligence, robotics and biotech to create entirely new systems beyond what is yet known – needs to be fully understood in the regional context to adequately prepare, since it will impact all areas of business and society.