A New Model of Development in Latin America is Needed

A New Model of Development in Latin America is Needed        Havana, May 29. -It is necessary for Latin America and the Caribbean to apply necessary policies aimed at eliminating poverty and applying a development model that would end inequality and social marginalization.

This is one of the most important ideas that came out of a regional seminar on aging that met for two days in this capital organized by Cuba and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)

The director of the Study Center of Population and Development of the National Office of Statistics (ONE), Juan Carlos Alonso, pointed out the importance of measures aimed at raising the quality of life.

Precisely public policies of health, education, access to work and social security are of utmost importance, he added.

Alonso explained that, unfortunately, this region is still region with most inequality in the planet that has a negative effect on all social sectors, particularly in children, women and the adult and elderly.

Also speaking at the event, deputy director of the Latin America and Caribbean Regional Office (LACRO) of UNFPA, Luis Mora, who pointed out as a merit of the meeting was the clear analysis of the situation in this field.

Mora interpreted this reality and what it implies in progress, development and support of the elderly to society, the official added.

On behalf of UNFPA he expressed appreciation of Cuba for being a leader in international forums on subjects such as the rights of the elderly, sexual education and reproductive health services, among other issues.

The resident coordinator of the United Nations System in Cuba, Barbara Pesce, qualified the seminar as a success since it allowed agreeing on a broad program of work as well as profound exchanges of knowledge and experiences.

Among the issues discussed were the State, culture, intergenerational solidarity and increased contributions. Other challenges are guaranteeing the right of aging with security and dignity and investing in education, health and employment for the young as well as guaranteeing the life of the elderly.

Pesce stimulated South South cooperation and improve consistency of data and availability of information that would promote special policies for the elderly as well as a multi-sectorial focus.

Also participating in the seminar were representatives of the Ministry of Economy and Planning (MEP), the secretary general of the Population Division of ECLAC, CELADE, and Ibero American Cooperation (SEGIB) and other institutions. (Prensa Latina)