The “Economy Week” event is a unique platform for critical analysis and interdisciplinary dialogue that will explore the most relevant perspectives on development in Latin America and, in particular, in Ecuador. In a context marked by low growth rates, unstable jobs, and a dollarized Ecuadorian economy, this meeting invites attendees to understand and debate the challenges facing the region. Latin America, with an average annual growth of barely 0.9% in the last decade, is trapped in a dynamic of low investment and productivity. Ecuador, dependent on its primary exports and with limitations to respond to global fluctuations, reflects many of the common vulnerabilities in the countries of the region, which are looking for innovative and sustainable solutions.

For three days, from December 11 to 13, 2024, highly prestigious international and national experts will share their visions and proposals on how to transform economic limitations into development opportunities. The conferences and thematic panels will address topics such as productive diversification, development-oriented fiscal policies, environmental sustainability, and the challenges of a dollarized economy. In addition, the event will explore how development strategies impact social well-being and cohesion, providing a comprehensive vision that connects the economy with social justice and sustainability.

The purpose of the Week of the Economy is to offer a space for reflection and analysis of economic development strategies in Latin America and Ecuador. This meeting not only presents a learning opportunity but also promotes a practical vision for those who wish to be part of the change in Latin America. Professionals, academics, students, and public policymakers will find in this space innovative ideas and strategies to face the structural challenges of the region. Each participant will be able to connect with public policy proposals and analyze how different shared solutions can be developed in the face of global challenges.

In recent decades, development in Latin America has been widely debated, addressing structural problems such as economic volatility, poverty, and inequality. In this context, Ecuador represents a relevant case study due to its dollarization regime and its dependence on the export of primary products. Although these factors have provided some short-term stability, they also limit the maneuverability of its monetary policy and its economic flexibility. According to ECLAC (2022), the region must adopt a productive model oriented towards environmental sustainability, social inclusion, and economic diversification, thus reducing its dependence on primary products to achieve resilient development.

In this framework, the structural transformation of the Ecuadorian economy and the reduction of inequality have become priorities for academics and public policymakers. Based on approaches such as those of Ocampo and Ros (2011), it is proposed to promote innovation, productive diversification, and the growth of high-value-added sectors to ensure long-term development. To discuss these issues, the Department of Quantitative Economics organized the Week of the Economy, an event dedicated to reflecting on economic growth in Latin America, especially in Ecuador. The event will examine the theories and public policies of economic development and their effects on social well-being. It will seek to offer a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities facing the region on its path towards inclusive and sustainable development.