The next state that we have designated for study is Chile. Chile, in general, is also among the most economically developed countries in the region. The main economic problem of the country is its strong dependence on the American foreign trade and from the world prices for copper (the production of which makes up a significant share of the country's GDP).

Problems in social sphere, in general, are similar to Brazilian and Argentine ones - a relatively developed industry does not provide a stable income and work for a certain part of the population. As a result, about 18% of the country's population lives below the poverty line, and the level of only apparent unemployment is about 7.8 percent.

At the same time, we emphasize that Chile is the only country Latin American region, where last years there is no deterioration in social conditions, as well as the least corrupt country in Latin America. In 2008, Chile took the 1st position in the integral indicator of competitiveness among the countries of Latin America.

This situation is directly related to the well-thought-out socio-economic policy of the country's leadership. This is due to the peculiarities of the history of this country. In the period from 1970 to 1988, the military dictatorship of August Pinochet operated in the country, during which the development of democratic institutions of the state as a whole came to naught. The modern governments of Chile have traditionally pursued a fairly liberal policy, focusing on the economic development of the country and the development of its social sphere.

Numerous measures (tax reform, transformation of the role of the state in the economy, various measures of social support for the most vulnerable segments of the population) of the Chilean government, if they did not eradicate all problems, however, made the socio-economic situation in the state quite stable.

Having become acquainted with the modern domestic policy of the states - the leaders of the region, let's move on to depressed countries. A striking example is the Republic of Haiti.

Haiti is a small island nation in the Caribbean. Before the devastating earthquake of 2010, when this state became known to the whole world, the state was an example of the least developed country in the region. The basis of its economy is extensive Agriculture, share industrial production was insignificant. The country's GDP is the last in the UN list (203rd place - 2008), and the unemployment rate was 85% of the economically active population, 4/5 of the country's population lives below the poverty line. We also consider indicative the fact that 6% of the total population of Haiti are infected with AIDS, and 50% are illiterate.

The current governments of Haiti, in general, had neither the opportunity nor the strength to solve the socio-economic problems of the country. The activities of the Haitian government over the past 50 years have been mainly focused on a variety of negotiations for economic assistance from developed countries, primarily the United States. Because of this lack of attention to the problems of their own country, coups d'etat were constantly taking place in Haiti.

The already catastrophic situation in Haiti was exacerbated on January 12, 2010, when a devastating earthquake hit the country. Only according to official data, the death toll was about 220 thousand people (7.5% of the total population of the country). The Haitian government currently has little control over the situation in the country, which now actually lives on international humanitarian aid.

The last country whose socio-economic problems we will study in the framework of this work is Venezuela.

The Venezuelan economy is based on the export of oil (which provides about 80% of the state's income). At the same time, a relatively small number of people are employed in this sector of the economy. Hence unemployment (about 12% of the population) and low incomes of the population (about 38% live below the poverty line). Also characteristic is the distribution organized crime and corruption in various government bodies.

In 1999, the President of Venezuela is Hugo Chavez, one of the most charismatic and extravagant politicians of our time. The basis of his foreign and domestic policy is the fight against the strongest influence in the US region, which, according to the politician, hinders the development of Venezuela. In the 2000s, the government of Hugo Chavez actively carried out economic reforms, the meaning of which was the nationalization of the main sectors of the economy and reducing dependence on the US economy.

Fighting internal problems The state is also in the constant vision of the President of the Republic. Currently, the government of Hugo Chavez is developing a package of measures that are designed to curb inflation, stabilize currency market and supplying the population with basic foodstuffs at fixed prices.

According to government circles, the economy is negatively affected by rising inflation, which, according to official figures, is 2% per month, and the rapid growth of the dollar on the black market, which in turn caused supply disruptions and rising food prices.

Among the measures designed to stabilize money turnover, - quotas for the purchase of foreign currency by the population. To supply the population with scarce products, the government announced the purchase of a large consignment of beef and foodstuffs from abroad. Along with economic measures, the government, according to Vice President Jorge Rodriguez, "is waging a frontal fight against speculators and food hoarders", illegal foreign exchange transactions.

These and other measures taken by the Venezuelan leadership have mixed results. According to Venezuelan official data, there is currently a decrease in unemployment and inflation. According to the calculations and conclusions of independent analysts, the Venezuelan economy is on the verge of collapse, and social problems at any moment can lead to a coup and civil war.

These are the main government programs Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Haiti and Venezuela, which are aimed at resolving the most acute socio-economic problems faced by the governments of specific countries in the region. In what follows, on the basis of the data obtained, we will try to analyze the main prospects for the countries of Latin America in the context of globalization trends in the world economy.

§ 2. Prospects for the socio-economic development of Latin America in the context of the globalization of the world economy (on the example of Haiti, Brazil, Venezuela, Argentina and Chile)

Let us briefly analyze the main prospects for the countries of Latin America in the field of socio-economic development, in modern conditions.

Latin America has a large and not yet fully exploited resource potential, but it has traditionally occupied a peripheral position in the world economy and politics.

The prospects for Latin America in the modern world are rather ambiguous. On the one hand, it can be seen that some of the major states of the region, primarily Brazil, Argentina and Chile, have good prospects for taking their share of the global market, to which the world economy is gradually moving.

Introduction

§ 2. Ways of development of Latin American countries: a review of political and economic history

Chapter II. The most significant problems of modern Latin America

§ one. Economic problems: main components

§ 2. Social problems: causes, essence, consequences

Chapter III. National policy of the states of Latin America in the field of socio-economic management

§ 1. Analysis of the state programs of the leading circles and parties of Latin America (on the example of Haiti, Brazil, Venezuela, Argentina and Chile)

§ 2. Prospects for the socio-economic development of Latin America in the context of the globalization of the world economy (on the example of Haiti, Brazil, Venezuela, Argentina and Chile)

Conclusion

Bibliographic list of used literature

INTRODUCTION

Our work is related to the study of the socio-economic problems of modern Latin America.

Latin America is the general name for countries and territories that are located south of the United States.

About 470 million people currently live in these territories and states (moreover, this population has grown more than 8 times over the 20th century, which is the most high level growth in the world). The total territory of Latin America is more than twenty million square kilometers (which is more than the entire territory of Russia). The largest territorially states of the region are Brazil, Argentina, Mexico, and Venezuela, Chile, Colombia, Peru are added to the list of the most economically developed countries of the region.

Relevance our work is determined by a complex of reasons. Let's designate them.

First, Latin America, on the one hand, is an actively developing region of the modern world.

The largest countries in the region - Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Mexico, show consistently good rates economic growth, industry, agriculture, and the service sector are actively developing in these states.

At the same time, many socio-economic problems of the region (unemployment, crime, marginalization, drug addiction, etc.) hinder the development of these states and create a negative image of these countries in the eyes of the world community, hinder the attraction of investments and, as a result, hinder the development of these countries .

Secondly, it must be taken into account that the overwhelming majority of Latin American countries (for example, Nicaragua, Belize, Ecuador), do not belong to the number of rapidly developing economically states. The socio-economic problems of these countries are similar to the problems of more developed countries - their neighbors, however, due to the fact that they are much less developed economically, the problems under consideration are expressed much more acutely. As a result, a tense internal political situation, a negative image in the eyes of developed countries and the world community.

Thirdly, it is necessary to take into account the fact that Russian Federation, currently has certain interests in the region. Experts note that in recent years, cooperation between Russia and the countries of the region (mainly Venezuela, Bolivia, Cuba, Peru, Brazil, Nicaragua, etc.) is experiencing a qualitative upsurge - there are common projects in the energy and banking, political interaction is expanding to address geopolitical issues, cultural and educational projects are being developed. The socio-economic problems present in the countries of the region somewhat hinder the development of these relations, and also somewhat reduce investment attractiveness countries of Latin America in the eyes of potential Russian investors.

object thesis for us will be the socio-economic problems of the countries of the Latin American region, which take place in present stage their development, and subject - the policy of the governments of the states of Latin America to solve these problems.

Chronological framework thesis are limited to the period of the beginning of the XXI century and mainly include 2000-2010.

aim thesis is a study of the socio-economic problems of Latin America.

To achieve this goal, the following tasks:

- to study the socio-economic development of Latin American countries at the present stage of their development, through a comparison of the main socio-economic indicators of their development, as well as through a brief review of their economic and political history;

To identify the most significant socio-economic problems of modern Latin America, through the study of the main components of economic problems, as well as through the identification of the causes, essence and consequences of social problems;

Consider the national policy of the states of Latin America (on the example of Haiti, Brazil, Venezuela, Argentina and Chile) in the field of socio-economic management: analyze the state programs of the leading circles and parties of these countries and identify the main prospects for the socio-economic development of Latin America in the context of globalization of the world economy;

The set goals and objectives formed structure the thesis, which consists of an introduction, three chapters (two paragraphs each), a conclusion and a list of references.

To solve the purpose and objectives of the work, we used certain sources and special literature.

The main sources we use are official data from various international analytical agencies, as well as publicly available figures characterizing the socio-economic development of individual states.

In the work, we used monographs by such authors as A.V. Bobrovnikova, L.L. Klochkovsky, as well as articles and studies by V.A. Kraasilshchikov, B. Martynov, A. Moiseev, V. Sudarev, G Tereshchenko and some others.

Chapter I. Socio-economic development of the countries of Latin America

§ 1. Main socio-economic indicators of Latin American countries

So, our understanding of the specifics of modern socio-economic problems of Latin American countries will not be complete without studying the specifics of the Latin American region and its role in the modern world economy and politics.

Let's give a brief description of the Latin American region. The term Latin America originally referred to those parts of the American continent that were colonized and settled by people from the countries of the Iberian (Iberian) Peninsula - Spain and Portugal. Spain and Portugal in the XV-XVI centuries colonized more than 90% of the territory of modern Latin America, the remaining parts were distributed between England, France and the Netherlands.

Most of the large states of the region gained independence from the European metropolises (Portugal and Spain) in the 19th century, the vast majority of the rest - in the 20th century. Currently, there are about 30 states in the region.

It is not possible to determine the number more precisely because of the difference in approaches to the definition of Latin America. Thus, a number of researchers include only the Spanish-Portuguese-speaking countries in it, and the former or present colonial possessions of England, France and the Netherlands are not included in the number of territories in the region.

At the same time, the UN groups the countries of the region according to a purely geographical principle - North America and South America. Thus, Latin America is more of a cultural than a geographical term. Currently, Latin America includes a number of states and territories of South and Central America (see Table No. 1.).

Table number 1.

States and territories of Latin America

Independent states		Dependent territories (indicating ownership)
Argentina		Guadeloupe (France)
	Nicaragua	Martinique (France)
		French Guiana (France)
Brazil	Paraguay	Puerto Rico (USA)
Venezuela		Falkland Islands (UK)
Guatemala	Salvador	Aruba (Netherlands)
	Trinidad and Tobago	Netherlands Antilles (Netherlands)
Honduras		Cayman Islands (UK)
Dominican Republic		South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands (UK)
Colombia		Montserrat (UK)
Costa Rica

Source: site materials ru.wikipedia.org

About 470 million people currently live in these territories and states (moreover, this population has grown more than 8 times over the 20th century, which is the highest growth rate in the world) .

The total territory of Latin America is more than twenty million square kilometers (which is more than the entire territory of Russia). The largest territorially states of the region are Brazil, Argentina, Mexico, Venezuela, Chile, Colombia, Peru are added to the list of the most economically developed countries of the region, to these states. The vast majority of independent countries in the region of the republic, and almost all of them have access to the sea (with the exception of Bolivia and Paraguay).

Let's move on to the main socio-economic indicators of Latin American countries. They are summarized in table 2.

Table 2.

Main socio-economic indicators of Latin American countries in 2000-2007.

	Population,			growth rate in 2000-2007,
	Population,	billion dollars	population,	growth rate in 2000-2007,
Argentina
Antigua and Barbuda
Bahamas


Brazil
Venezuela

Guatemala

Honduras
Dominican Republic
Colombia

Costa Rica


Nicaragua

Paraguay

Salvador
Trinidad and Tobago

Source: The World Bank. World Development Report. wash. 2008. P-190-191, 232.

As can be seen from the above table, the main growth rates were demonstrated by such states as Chile, Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, as well as smaller countries such as Panama and the Dominican Republic. At the same time, with regard to the last two states, it can be argued that their role in the Latin region is relatively insignificant.

Let's also get acquainted with the average annual GDP growth rates for a number of leading Latin American states in a longer period of time. They are presented in table 3.

Table 3

Average annual GDP growth rates of the leading Latin American countries at the turn of the 20th – 21st centuries, %

As we can see, while the growth rate of Brazil and Mexico continued to increase, Argentina's GDP almost halved. The reasons for this phenomenon will be discussed later.

Let's get acquainted with some more figures that clearly demonstrate to us some significant indicators of the economies of Latin America. They are shown in Table 4.

Table 4

Average annual dynamics of GDP, inflation and prices for exported goods of Latin American countries

Source: IMF. World Economic Outlook. May 2008 Wash. 2008. P. 151, 175.

These are the main figures illustrating the socio-economic development of Latin America. As we can see, these figures vary greatly depending on the specific countries of the region, as well as depending on the time period taken as a basis. The analysis of the presented data will follow in the subsequent presentation, and now, in accordance with one of the objectives of our work, we will draw some conclusions on this section. So:

The main indicators of the socio-economic development of the countries of Latin America, firstly, demonstrate various indicators depending on the specific countries of the region, as well as depending on the time period taken as a basis.

§ 2. Ways of development of Latin American countries: a review of political and economic history

Thus, having briefly familiarized ourselves with the components of the concept of "Latin America", as well as with the main figures illustrating their development, let's move on to an analysis of its role in the modern world.

Let's start with the role of Latin America in global economy. As we noted earlier, the main territories of Latin America gained independence back in the 19th century, but independence from Spain and Portugal was replaced by semi-dependence on France and Great Britain, and later on the United States. In the XIX - XX centuries, the role of exporters of mineral raw materials and agricultural products, a kind of "raw material appendages" of the largest countries of the world, was assigned to the countries of Latin America.

In the first half of the 20th century, the presence of the United States in the economic and political life of the region became comprehensive, and the United States often defended its interests in the region with the help of open military interventions.

The situation partly changed in the second half of the 20th century, when Latin America embarked on a path of economic growth. The economic transformations in the most significant countries of Latin America during this period were characterized by the rejection of a semi-closed economic model based on politics. import-substituting industrialization.

Instead of this system, there was a gradual transition to a liberal one. market system which implies openness to the world market, deep involvement in world economic processes, withdrawal of the state from direct participation in production en Noah yat l ost, ne p key en and his on the indirect regulation of the economy. As a result, it was observed:

Strengthening independence;

Carrying out reforms in agriculture;

The industry's focus on exports and the displacement of imported goods;

Creation of new economic and social infrastructures;

Improvement of macroeconomic regulation systems;

Mobilization of own resources;

Wide use of capital, experience and technologies of developed countries.

However, this was only the first stage in the economic reform of the countries of the region. The results were generally unexpected.

Contrary to expectations, instead of recovery, there was a decline in production and investment. There was a rapid growth of speculative operations to the detriment of real production, the budget deficit grew, unemployment grew, the standard of living of the majority of the population approached the poverty line, and domestic and external debt increased.

The second stage of the region's development is associated with somewhat opposite processes. They took place in the 80s - 90s of the XX century under the sign of the implementation of neoliberal reforms. Their results include such processes as the transition from the stagnation of the 1980s to the revival of the 1990s, a certain stabilization of the financial situation, a partial recovery of state budgets, a decrease in inflation, an increase in foreign trade turnover, and some others.

According to experts who have deeply studied the models of economic development of Latin American countries, their analysis shows that all these models by and large differ from each other in the degree of state intervention in the economy.

At the same time, at different stages of economic reform, this degree either increases or decreases depending on changes in socio-economic priorities.

Nevertheless, these models have shaped the economic situation in the region, which is observed now. There are a number of key phenomena for the region's economy that have become decisive for the development of Latin American countries at the beginning of the 21st century:

First, the sluggish dynamics of economic development. For the period 1990-2000 - s. the average GDP growth rate in the region was only 2.7%. The average annual increase in per capita income was only 1%. Latin America has lagged behind all other areas of the developing world in terms of growth;

Secondly, a noticeable increase in economic instability and uneven development. At the end of the 1990s, the growth rate dropped sharply (in the 2000s, it averaged only 1.3%, with a reduction in per capita income);

Thirdly, significant negative structural shifts, which resulted in the strengthening of raw materials orientation and large-scale destruction of the production apparatus in the manufacturing industry during the reforms. Under the conditions of sharply aggravated foreign competition and the noticeable passivity of local capital, this most important industry was steadily losing its positions. At the same time, the network of foreign export enterprises expanded rapidly. The growth of the mining industry (with the participation foreign capital) and agriculture consolidated the agrarian and raw material specialization of the economies of many countries in the region;

Fourth, the increasingly intensive involvement of Latin American countries in the complex world economic processes associated with progressive globalization, and their increased dependence on external economic factors outside of national control. Under the conditions of the dynamism of the world economy that has decreased in recent years and its growing instability, this factor has had a destabilizing effect on the economic evolution of the region, aggravated its economic and, in particular, financial difficulties;

Fifth, the further intensification of the impoverishment of broad sections of the population and the deepening of social inequality. All key indicators: the number of people living below the poverty line (227 million people - 44% of the population of the region), inequality in income distribution, the number of unemployed (16.7 million people), homeless people who do not use health care, indicate that that the reforms not only failed to lessen the sharpness social problems, but on the contrary aggravated them;

Sixth, Latin America continues to lag behind the centers of the world economy. Despite partial modernization and certain opportunities for the accelerated solution of some economic problems that the current stage of the scientific and technological revolution opens up, the gap between the region and industrialized countries is widening;

So, during certain economic reforms, a number of countries in the region (primarily Brazil, Chile and Argentina) have built a developed economy, partly moving away from the role of exporters of raw materials. However, for the bulk of the countries and territories of Latin America, economic lagging behind developed countries remains characteristic. It can also be noted that the key obstacles that have traditionally held back the economic and social development region, completely preserved.

At present, as a rule, each country in the region specializes in the export of one or two types of raw materials and products, on which its well-being directly depends. Ecuador, for example, exports oil and bananas, Bolivia - tin and natural gas, Colombia - coffee and oil, Peru - non-ferrous metal ores, Venezuela - oil.

No economic reforms are able to reverse the current state of affairs.

The development of industry in Latin America is also associated mainly with the extraction of minerals: ecologically dirty and labor-intensive industries for the processing of mineral raw materials were transferred here from developed countries (large copper smelters in Chile, factories for the enrichment of tin ore, concentrate production and smelting of tin in Bolivia, oil refineries factories in Venezuela).

As we have already noted, only some Latin American countries, Brazil, Argentina, and partly Chile, have managed to build a relatively diversified industry, which have a developed automotive and even aviation industry, have their own nuclear power plants, and produce computers and military equipment.

But in these countries, as elsewhere in Latin America, advanced sectors of the economy are combined with backward agriculture, and the dependent position of the countries of the continent in the world economy, huge external debts and economic inequality give rise to acute social conflicts.

In the context of our presentation, I would like to pay special attention to Brazil - the most economically developed, the largest geographically, and the most densely populated country in the region.

According to the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank, this country had the 9th economy in the world (for 2009). The country has developed both agriculture and industry, which produces the most different types goods, in addition, this country has the most developed service sector in South America.

Brazil is one of the BRIC countries - the fastest growing economies in the world (this also includes India, Russia and China). Some economists suggest that by 2050 these countries will exceed the total savings of the most developed countries of the world (the so-called "big seven").

In addition, it should be noted that a number of countries in the region (primarily Venezuela and Bolivia) have also been implementing broad economic reforms in recent years.

The foreign trade of Latin American countries is largely designed for the United States and Western Europe. In particular, the United States accounts for half of Latin America's foreign trade turnover. At the same time, dependency various countries from the USA is not the same. The countries of Central America, Mexico, and Colombia are the most dependent in the field of trade relations from the USA (at the same time, for example, Venezuela, Bolivia and Nicaragua are actively reducing the presence of the USA in their national economies).

The dependence of Latin American trade on the United States is expressed not only in the one-sidedness of trade relations, but also in the fact that North American companies, throughout the 20th century, sought to isolate Latin America from the market of other countries (primarily the USSR). This has led to the fact that American companies have become Latin American monopoly intermediaries. Thus, a significant part of the products manufactured in Latin America is exported to the United States, and then re-exported to other countries.

Internal Latin American trade is very poorly developed. Only 10% of trade turnover takes place between the countries of Latin America themselves. In terms of absolute volume of trade between the countries of Latin America, the leading place belongs to Argentina, Brazil and Venezuela. Trade relations with Latin American countries are extremely weak in Mexico, Colombia and the countries of Central America.

Let us dwell separately on the energy sector of Latin America. Oil exports represent a significant part of the income of countries such as Venezuela, Bolivia, Ecuador and Colombia, and they are interested in developing new markets, as well as in energy partnerships with OPEC countries and Russia, in terms of technology exchange and exploration of new fields.

These are the main trends in the economy of Latin America. In general, the role of Latin America in the world economy is rather meager and is mainly limited to the role of exporters of minerals and agricultural products. None of the countries in the region are among the most developed world economies (the big seven), but Brazil (the only one from the entire region) is in ninth place and is part of the BRIC.

Let's move on to the political system of Latin America, the study of which is also significant in the context of our topic.

So, as we have already noted, the vast majority of the independent states of the region are republics. In the 20th century, authoritarian-oligarchic regimes and military dictatorships were established in most of them, which largely determined the attitude of the world community towards the region as extremely unstable.

During the 20th century, private military conflicts took place in the region. In addition, a number of countries in the region (Nicaragua, Panama, Honduras) were subjected to American occupation in the 20th century. Currently, Latin American countries have practically completed the transition from dictatorships to constitutional representative democracy, to the strengthening of civil society institutions.

Military-political conflicts have been overcome, and although new threats to stability cannot be underestimated (the possibility of explosions of social discontent due to the deterioration of the living conditions of the lower classes, the expansion drug mafia, corruption, deformations caused by the formation of economic and political clan structures), today the constitutional continuity of democratic institutions in Latin America seems to be secured to a certain extent.

In Latin America, there are currently several interstate organizations (for example, the Organization of Ibero-American States, or Mercosur - Common Market South America) and a certain integration is being carried out between various states within the region.

At the same time, Latin America is poorly represented in world politics. None of the countries in the region is a permanent member of the UN Security Council, and an active foreign policy, leaving territorially from the region of North and South America, is carried out only by Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Venezuela, Bolivia and partly Cuba and Mexico.

Thus, we summarize the main results of our presentation in this chapter.

Latin America is the general name for countries and territories that are located south of the United States (more than 35 countries and territories). They are connected not only geographically, but also culturally. Most of the region's population is bilingual, Spanish and Brazilian;

The main indicators of the socio-economic development of the countries of Latin America, firstly, show different indicators depending on the specific countries of the region, as well as depending on the time period taken as a basis;

In the field of economy, Latin America is developed for the most part unevenly. Thus, Brazil, Argentina and Chile have stable developing economies, while the rest of the countries in the region have export-oriented economies. A number of states have a certain weight as major suppliers of hydrocarbons (Venezuela, Bolivia);

The main foreign trade partner of the region is the USA. In general, the role of Latin America in the world economy is rather meager and is mainly limited to the role of an exporter of minerals and agricultural products. None of the countries in the region are among the most developed world economies (G7), but Brazil (the only one from the entire region) is in the ninth place in the list of the largest economies in the world;

Latin America is poorly represented in world politics. None of the countries in the region is a permanent member of the UN Security Council, and only Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Venezuela, Bolivia, and partly Cuba and Mexico pursue an active foreign policy that extends territorially from the region of North and South America;

Thus, Latin America has a rather limited role in the modern world. Experts emphasize that this region has a lot of prerequisites for further development.

In addition, the largest countries of Latin America are largely dissatisfied with the "role" in the modern world that the United States, Britain and France have "prepared" for them. That is why in recent years Latin America has been expanding its cooperation with other economies - Chinese, Indian and Russian.

Having become acquainted with the basics of the economy and politics of Latin American countries, in the following presentation we will move on to an analysis of those socio-economic problems that take place at the present stage of its development - partly as a result of the developmental features national economies partly as a consequence of the region's political instability.

CHAPTER II. The most significant problems of modern Latin America

§ 1. Economic problems: main components

So, having familiarized ourselves with the main indicators of the socio-economic development of the countries of Latin America, as well as with significant aspects of their economic and political history, let's move on to a direct consideration of those socio-economic problems that are largely decisive for the development of the region.

Let's start with economic problems. Economic problems for the countries of Latin America as a whole are common, however, their severity and manifestations are different for specific countries.

So, the problems in the economies of Latin America are as follows:

The first and one of the main problems that stand out at first glance is the strong dependence of national economies on foreign trade. The problem here lies in the nature of foreign trade itself - it is dependent, semi-colonial in nature: industrial raw materials and foodstuffs are exported, while manufactured goods are imported. This is typical for almost all countries in the region, with the exception of Brazil, Chile and Argentina, where these trends are less developed.

We also note the dependence of the countries of the region on US foreign trade. The United States currently accounts for half of Latin America's foreign trade. The dependence of different countries on the United States is not the same. The countries of Central America (Nicaragua, Panama, El Salvador, etc.), Mexico are the most dependent in the field of trade relations from the USA.

The next trend, which is worth dwelling on separately, is the high role of agriculture in the structure of the economies of individual Latin American countries. Countries such as Ecuador, Mexico, Bolivia, and all the countries of Central America are heavily dependent on the export of agricultural products. Agricultural exports are the main source of livelihood for 60% of the population in Latin America.

This is mainly due to the policy pursued by the United States, as well as Great Britain and France, towards Latin America throughout the 20th century. This led to a one-sided, monocultural development of agriculture, when the production of two or three, and sometimes even one product determines the country's economy and the structure of foreign trade (a striking example is the production of bananas in Ecuador).

Modern agrarian relations of the countries of Latin America continue to be determined by the dominance of large landownership, as they were a hundred years ago. The concentration of landed property in the hands of a few owners is the main obstacle to multilateral development agriculture of the region.

Huge land areas are still owned by foreign, mainly North American, concessionaires in Argentina, Brazil, Chile. However, we note that in Venezuela and Bolivia, where the problems in agriculture were basically similar, in recent years there have been trends towards the nationalization of agricultural land, which, in turn, can lead to unpredictable results.

Foreign (again, mostly American and Western European) companies still own, as they did in the middle of the 20th century, enterprises for the primary processing of the most important agricultural products: meat-packing and canning factories, butter, flour-grinding industries in Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil, sugar factories in Peru , Brazil, Dominican Republic, etc.

The largest North American and English companies - United Fruit Company, Swift, Armour, AngLo, La Forestal, Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company, American Coffee Corporation, etc. - concentrate in their hands a significant share of the production, processing and export of agricultural products, dominating the agriculture and food industries of Latin America.

This is true for all countries in the region, with the possible exception of Brazil, Chile and Argentina, where these factors coexist with more progressive trends. In these countries, latifundia with an extensive nature of farming coexist with enterprises practicing highly productive agriculture.

For example, Chile and Argentina have shown the highest rates of growth in agricultural production in the region over the past twenty years, becoming world-class exporters of agricultural products.

At the same time, despite certain positive trends, it must be recognized that the agriculture of Latin American countries remains generally backward. The bulk farms is still based on manual labor and has only primitive agricultural technology.

Having become acquainted with the main problems in the agricultural component of the Latin American economy, let's move on to the problems in the industry of these countries.

As we saw in the previous presentation, the development of industry in Latin America is mainly associated with the extraction of minerals: ecologically dirty and labor-intensive industries for the processing of mineral raw materials were transferred here from developed countries.

A relatively diversified industry was built only by some Latin American countries - Brazil, Argentina and partly Chile, which have a developed automotive and even aviation industry, have their own nuclear power plants, and produce computers and military equipment.

In general, it can be argued that the shifts that have occurred in industrial development Brazil, Venezuela, Mexico, Argentina, and also Chile, they say that they have turned from agrarian to agro-industrial countries. However, the importance of this process should not be exaggerated.

In some countries, the share of public investment is very significant:

In Brazil, the ratio between public and private investment is 40:60;

in Chile - 43:57;

In Mexico - 47:53;

in Ecuador, 38:62;

On average, for all of Latin America, the ratio between public and private investments is approximately 25:75 (for reference, we note that developed countries, such as Western Europe, have a ratio of 10:90).

Many analysts and economists emphasize that such a significant role of the state, on the one hand, ensures certain growth rates for economies, and on the other hand, slows down objective economic processes in development. market economy. Hence the extremely high susceptibility of the economies of the states of the region to the consequences of financial and economic crises.

First, it is a rapid buildup of straight lines foreign investment. For 1991-2008 their total amount exceeded $700 billion and far exceeded the volume of accumulated foreign investment by the beginning of the 1990s.

Secondly, a noticeable expansion of the industry base of transnational capital. In addition to the traditional sectors (mining and manufacturing, agriculture), large investments were made in the sphere of industrial and non-productive services (electricity, telecommunications, banking, wholesale and retail trade) through the purchase of privatized state-owned enterprises. In 1996-2006 this area has become the main area of application of foreign capital: it accounted for 57% of all investments made.

The positions of foreign companies in the service market have significantly expanded. In the sales of the top 100 enterprises in this sector, the share of foreign companies increased from 10% in 1990 to 37% in 2006.

Of particular importance in terms of strengthening the positions of foreign capital was the large-scale penetration of the largest transnational banks into Latin America. In the early 1990s, their role there was minimal, and in 2006, out of a hundred leading banks in the region, 35 belonged to foreign capital.

The total assets of the latter exceeded $250 billion, and according to this indicator, they are practically equal to the national banking sector. But by its real power foreign banks far surpass local competitors, for they were represented by such powerful financial groups, like the American Citibank and GP Morgan-Chase, the Spanish Santander and Banco Bilbao Biscay, the English Lloyds and others.

Thirdly, the circle has increased significantly foreign investors. Although US corporations retained their leadership (their share in the total investment amounted to 32%), the largest transnational companies and banks in Spain (19%), Holland, France and other Western European countries became their active competitors.

Fourth, there have been significant shifts in the balance of power between the main groups of enterprises operating in the Latin American market.

If at the beginning of the 1990s, in the group of a thousand leading enterprises, the leadership belonged to national private capital (37.7% of total sales) and state-owned enterprises (32.5%), while foreign companies occupied the last place (29.9%), then in 2007 they advanced to the first place (41.6%), sharply displacing local state-owned enterprises (17.1%) and overtaking local private companies (41.3%).

Accordingly, the strategic goals pursued by transnational corporations began to have an increasing impact on the economic, social and political evolution of these countries. These processes were most clearly manifested in Mexico, the states of Central America and the Caribbean.

In general, as a result of these changes, transnational capital has taken a dominant position in the region in many sectors of the economy, which in one way or another have to be considered not only by small and medium-sized countries, but also by the leaders - Brazil, Mexico and Argentina, for which this state of affairs is a rather big problem. , the main essence of which is the export of capital from the country.

Another factor to which we want to draw attention is that a significant part of the enterprises operating in Latin America are “joint” with foreign (again, American and Western European) companies. Most of them can be classed as "screwdriver assembly" enterprises, and the share of foreign companies in these enterprises ranges from 50 to 80%, and in some cases even 99%.

It is significant that even in Mexico, Brazil and Argentina, where there have been recent trends towards modernization production capacity"joint ventures", the growth of their technical level, advanced training of personnel and the introduction of modern technologies, the share of value added in the products manufactured by these enterprises does not exceed 20%.

As for the countries of Central America and the Caribbean, there, according to experts, " current situation does not contribute to the expansion of the participation of local capital and the growth of added value in the production of products exported to the United States, which could contribute to real industrial progress.

Thus, it can be argued that within the framework of the joint production scheme, the share of the local sector is practically zero, and the value added is minimal.

Let us sum up the main results of our overview economic problems of modern Latin America.

The first and one of the main problems that stand out at first glance is the strong dependence of national economies on foreign trade (primarily on economic relations with the United States). The countries of Central America and Mexico are the most dependent in the field of trade relations from the USA;

Modern agrarian relations of the countries of Latin America continue, determined by the dominance of large landownership, as they were a hundred years ago. The concentration of land ownership in the hands of a few owners is the main obstacle to the multilateral development of the region's agriculture. The presence of large landed property does not mean that agriculture is of a high-tech nature. Most major landowners they themselves do not organize agricultural production, but lease the land. Most of the land on large farms is uncultivated;

A significant problem for the region's agriculture is the high proportion of foreign companies. The largest North American and British companies concentrate in their hands a significant share of the production, processing and export of agricultural products, dominating the agriculture and food industries of Latin America. These trends in agriculture are the main reason for the extremely slow growth of agricultural production, the growth of which is still associated with the extensive nature of its development;

Representatives of the businesses of these Latin American countries, in most cases, do not have sufficient funds for a significant expansion of production and the creation of large enterprises of heavy industry, the development and modernization of infrastructure. Hence the excessively high role of the state in the economy of these countries. Such a significant role of the state, on the one hand, ensures certain growth rates of economies, and on the other hand, it slows down objective economic processes in the development of a market economy. Hence the extremely high susceptibility of the economies of the states of the region to the consequences of financial and economic crises;

Another factor to which we want to draw attention is that a significant part of the enterprises operating in Latin America are “joint” with foreign (again, American and Western European) companies. It can be argued that within the framework of the joint production scheme, the share of the local sector is practically zero, and the value added is minimal;

A separate problem requiring attention is the increased dependence of the economic development of the region on foreign investment, which, in general, destabilizes the economies of Latin America. Today, this dependence is one of the main factors determining the growth of economic instability in Latin American countries.

Thus, we briefly got acquainted with the main economic problems of Latin American countries. These problems, in general, lead to the instability of the economies of these countries, and in particular - to an increase in social tension in the societies of these states. Economic problems cause social problems, which we will get acquainted with in the following presentation.

§ 2. Social problems: causes, essence, consequences

Consider the main social problems of the region. Most experts on Ibero-America argue and argue that the vast majority of these problems are due to the ambiguous economic situation in the region. As we said above, for 60% of the population of Latin America, despite certain trends in the development of industry, services, and so on, the main source of income is the export of agricultural products. There is a dependence of the population on the agricultural sector, which is less developed than we would like.

The next economic problem that causes social problems is the relative underdevelopment of industry. The emergence of large industrial complexes in Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Chile, Venezuela and Bolivia, as well as "screwdriver" industries in other countries of the region, cannot, however, provide jobs for everyone - hence unemployment, increased crime, marginalization of society, and so on. .

The factor of social destabilization of the Latin American society, of course, is the sharp deterioration economic situation leading to fairly rapid changes in public sentiment. The financial and economic crisis that shook Argentina at the turn of the century immediately affected the economies of almost all Latin American countries.

A paradoxical situation has developed - against the background of the growth of industrial production, the modernization of economies individual countries region, the real well-being of the population of these countries has generally deteriorated.

The disempowerment of the poorest part of the population, deprived of the opportunity to meet basic needs, against the backdrop of extreme inequality in income distribution, exacerbating social conflicts, is accompanied by the spread of violence that threatens the political stability of the region, and testifies to the significant flaws in the economic processes of modernization in Latin America.

The fact that modernization processes were noticeably ahead of political transformations and the strengthening of civil society structures had a negative impact on the quality and sustainability of political systems and modes.

This is clearly evidenced by a series of political crises and social unrest that swept through the countries of the region at the beginning of the 21st century. These events, according to a number of Western analysts and political scientists, called into question the irreversibility of democratic development in Latin America.

Over the past decade, the lag in the modernization of the social sphere has been one of the basic reasons for the instability of Latin American society, the interests of the vast majority of which were ignored by the ruling elites, which led to the accumulation of mass discontent in the least developed countries of the continent.

The lack of balance between the economic, political and social components of modernization, not to mention the problems of cultural interaction, hinders the real development of Latin American states.

The deterioration of the living conditions of the majority of the population, especially evident in countries that have experienced economic crises and political upheavals, has led to changes in the socio-political psychology of Latin Americans.

The specificity of historical, cultural and national traditions, the remaining differences in social structures and the ethnic composition of the population, the peculiarities of political systems and ruling regimes have led to different speeds of modernization processes unfolding on the continent. In the absence of balance, the flaws and failures of modernization have become the determining factor affecting the state and society and the attitude of the population towards the authorities. For the majority of the population, the improvement of material living conditions and the satisfaction of basic needs are much more important than the issues of deepening democracy and strengthening political institutions.

The critical level of dissatisfaction with the policies of the authorities, recorded at the turn of the century in such disadvantaged countries as Ecuador, Peru and Bolivia, was accompanied by a crisis of confidence in the authorities, a decline in the popularity of governments and signs of destabilization. At the same time, the growing potential of Indian movements and non-governmental organizations associated with them, which advocated a radical revision of state policy in the interests of the disadvantaged majority, was manifested.

As a result, since the end of the last century, alternative forces and leaders have come to power by constitutional means, mainly of a leftist orientation - in Venezuela (1998), Argentina (2002), Brazil (2002 and 2006), Bolivia and Uruguay (2005), Ecuador and Nicaragua (2006). These forces, in the main, advocated the nationalization of agriculture and industry and the reduction of the dependence of national economies on the United States and other countries. We will talk more about the policies of some of these countries in a later presentation.

We will back up our largely theoretical calculations with facts and figures. Let's start with unemployment - the most global social problem in Latin America.

So, since the mid-1990s, in the context of financial and economic instability and fluctuations in world markets, the growth of open unemployment in Latin America has accelerated.

According to international organizations, by the end of the last decade of the 20th century, in nine countries of the region (Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, El Salvador, Paraguay, Uruguay and Venezuela), the proportion of completely unemployed in the total mass of the economically active population increased on average from 5 to 9.5%.

At the beginning of the new millennium, there was a significant increase in the level of open unemployment in Argentina, Colombia, Paraguay and Uruguay - by 4-6%, in Bolivia, Venezuela, Chile and Ecuador - from 2 to 4% (2007). Under the current conditions, the proportion of completely unemployed in most Latin American countries reached the highest level compared to the average annual figures: in Argentina 21.5% (May 2007), in Colombia - 17.7%, Uruguay - 14.5%, Venezuela - 13.7%, Ecuador - 12.3%, Paraguay - 10.4%, Chile - 9.5% (2008).

The growth of open unemployment in the cities affected all social categories of employees. It was accompanied by an increase in their composition of people of active working age (20-24 years old), who have qualifications, a relatively high level of education, and in many cases are heads of families.

In industry and a number of other sectors of the economy in Latin America, the process of increasing the part-time population has accelerated. According to some data, in the 1990s, the overall level of the unemployed, including those employed on a part-time basis or doing odd jobs, averaged 40% of the economically active population in the region. Moreover, the vast majority of the unemployed were concentrated in large cities.

Let us dwell separately on the problems of employment in the so-called "joint ventures". In assembly line plants, in many cases due to the absence of trade unions, there is a relatively high turnover of the workforce, which allows entrepreneurs to use various forms of hiring workers to keep their earnings low.

In general, experts emphasize that in the field of employment in Latin American countries, the so-called “hidden or partial unemployment” associated with the migration of rural residents to big cities. Total unemployment in most countries has generally remained relatively low and stable.

Let's move on to other social problems.

Another factor exacerbating the social problems of the region is more likely due to geographical and climatic reasons. First of all, we are talking about the existence of ideal conditions for the production of various drugs.

This is especially true for Colombia and Ecuador. Unemployment, on the one hand, and, on the other hand, the conditions for the production of narcotic substances, which are traditionally in demand among certain circles of the whole world, have given rise to a number of specific problems.

A significant part of the population of Ecuador and Colombia are employed in the production and sale of drugs controlled by organized crime. Hence - drug addiction, the growth of crime, clans, etc.

Let's draw the main conclusions of this chapter:

The next significant trend is the high role of agriculture in the structure of the economies of individual Latin American countries. The export of agricultural products is the main source of livelihood for 60% of the population of Latin America. A number of political and economic trends that took place in the 19th and 20th centuries contributed to the one-sided, monocultural development of agriculture, when the production of two or three, and sometimes even one product determines the country's economy and the structure of foreign trade (a striking example is Ecuador);

Modern agrarian relations of the countries of Latin America continue, determined by the dominance of large landownership, as they were a hundred years ago. The concentration of land ownership in the hands of a few owners is the main obstacle to the multilateral development of the region's agriculture. The presence of large landed property does not mean that agriculture is of a high-tech nature. Most large landowners do not organize agricultural production themselves, but lease the land. Most of the land on large farms is uncultivated;

The development of industry in Latin America is mainly associated with the extraction of minerals: ecologically dirty and labor-intensive industries for the processing of mineral raw materials were transferred here from developed countries. Relatively diversified industry, managed to build only a few Latin American countries - Brazil, Argentina and partly Chile;

Another factor to which we want to draw attention is that a significant part of the enterprises operating in Latin America are “joint” with foreign (again, American and Western European) companies. It can be argued that within the framework of the joint production scheme, the share of the local sector is practically zero, and the value added is minimal;

The factor of social destabilization of Latin American society, of course, is a sharp deterioration in the economic situation, leading to fairly rapid changes in public sentiment. In general, a paradoxical situation has developed in the region - against the background of industrial production growth, modernization of the economies of individual countries of the region, the real well-being of the population of these countries has generally worsened;

In general, the atmosphere in Latin American society remains tense. According to one of the Russian specialists in Latin America, M.L. Chumakova "a sensitive barometer of public sentiment clearly shows how far the ideals of democracy, justice, social and economic well-being from the real state of affairs in most countries of the region”.

Chapter III. National policy of the states of Latin America in the field of socio-economic management

§ 1. Analysis of the state programs of the leading circles and parties of Latin America (on the example of Haiti, Brazil, Venezuela, Argentina and Chile)

In the previous presentation, we got acquainted with the main trends in the socio-economic development of Latin American states, and also got acquainted with some economic and social problems that are typical for the countries of the region.

In this part of our work, we will analyze those state programs that are aimed at resolving the most acute socio-economic problems that have confronted the governments of specific countries in the region.

As an example, we have chosen the five countries of Haiti, Brazil, Venezuela, Argentina and Chile. Our choice is not accidental, but is in many ways indicative of the entire Latin American region. Brazil, Argentina and Chile are the leading countries in Latin America. Here, the most developed economies and socio-economic problems, although they exist, however, have their own specifics.

Haiti is one of the poorest countries in the region and its economy is based almost entirely on agriculture. In addition, it should be taken into account that in the country, the consequences of the devastating earthquake in January 2010 were added to the problems “typical” for the region.

Venezuela is another vector for the development of Latin American states. In power in this country is a left-wing government, the basis of whose foreign policy and economy is clear anti-Americanism. Socio-economic problems also did not bypass this country, however, the ways to solve them here are somewhat different than in other countries.

Thus, consideration of the state policy in the field of socio-economic management in the above states will allow us to form a fairly complete picture, providing for a wide variety of trends for the states of Latin America.

Haiti is a small island nation in the Caribbean. Before the devastating earthquake of 2010, when this state became known to the whole world, the state was an example of the least developed country in the region. The basis of its economy is extensive agriculture, the share of industrial production was insignificant. The country's GDP is the last in the UN list (203rd place - 2008), and the unemployment rate was 85% of the economically active population, 4/5 of the country's population lives below the poverty line. We also consider indicative the fact that 6% of the total population of Haiti are infected with AIDS, and 50% are illiterate.

The last country whose socio-economic problems we will study in the framework of this work is Venezuela.

The Venezuelan economy is based on the export of oil (which provides about 80% of the state's income). At the same time, a relatively small number of people are employed in this sector of the economy. Hence unemployment (about 12% of the population) and low incomes of the population (about 38% live below the poverty line). The spread of organized crime and corruption in various government bodies are also characteristic.

The fight against the internal problems of the state is also in the constant vision of the President of the Republic. Currently, the government of Hugo Chavez is developing a package of measures that are designed to curb inflation, stabilize the foreign exchange market and supply the population with basic foodstuffs at fixed prices.

Among the measures designed to stabilize monetary circulation is the quota for the purchase of foreign currency by the population. To supply the population with scarce products, the government announced the purchase of a large consignment of beef and foodstuffs from abroad. Along with economic measures, the government, according to Vice President Jorge Rodriguez, "is waging a frontal fight against speculators and food hoarders", illegal foreign exchange transactions.

These are the main state programs of Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Haiti and Venezuela, which are aimed at resolving the most acute socio-economic problems that have confronted the governments of specific countries in the region. In what follows, on the basis of the data obtained, we will try to analyze the main prospects for the countries of Latin America in the context of globalization trends in the world economy.

§ 2. Prospects for the socio-economic development of Latin America in the context of the globalization of the world economy (on the example of Haiti, Brazil, Venezuela, Argentina and Chile)

Let us briefly analyze the main prospects for the countries of Latin America in the field of socio-economic development, in modern conditions.

Latin America has a large and not yet fully exploited resource potential, but it has traditionally occupied a peripheral position in the world economy and politics .

Another issue is the nature of this “share”. For the national interests of these countries, the high-tech production of industrial goods and agricultural products, as well as maintaining their place in the manufacturing industry, naturally remains a priority.

At the same time, according to some experts, the leaders of the world economy are preparing a more “modest” place for these countries, mainly related to the export and processing of those minerals that these states have. We note in brackets that these arguments and considerations are typical for the entire region.

The prospects for the less developed countries in the region are far more questionable. Most likely, in a globalized world economy, most countries in the region will continue to have a clear dependence on the United States, as well as an export-oriented nature of the economy based on the export of agricultural products or natural resources (as, for example, in the case of Venezuela).

Russian specialists have now prepared an analytical report on the prospects for the countries of Latin America. According to him:

Region weight in world GDP will not change, but will remain at the level of 7-8%, in the world population - 8-9%;

The trend towards economic differentiation of the countries of the region will continue. Brazil, Chile and Argentina, following the path of technological renewal and the gradual formation of elements of the "knowledge economy", will increase the gap from other states. The position of Venezuela will, of course, depend on the state of the oil market;

Brazil will confirm its status as a rising giant and will step up its efforts to form its own zone of influence in South America;

The development of Haiti will remain at the same level (virtually zero) and will be determined by the consequences of the 2010 earthquake, which completely destroyed the already underdeveloped infrastructure of the region.

In general, it can be argued that Latin America is undergoing major changes. On the one hand, the states of the region are moving away from the former standards of economic policy and behavior in the international arena. On the other hand, the nature of the external influence is changing. Traditionally dominated by the United States, now the presence of other world powers is increasing, thereby expanding the field for political maneuvering.

The consequences of the new situation can be very diverse and often contradictory, but its consequences for the socio-economic development of the region are generally assessed positively.

Thus, we summarize the next intermediate conclusions of our work:

Consideration of state policy in the field of socio-economic management in Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Haiti and Venezuela will allow us to form a fairly complete picture, providing for a wide variety of trends for the states of Latin America;

Brazil is one of the most developed countries in Latin America. However, a relatively developed economy did not save the country from many socio-economic problems. The main ones are corruption, social conflicts, corruption and government bureaucracy. The Brazilian government, in general, takes seriously those socio-economic problems that are relevant to this country. Since 2006, the Brazilian government has adopted a number of fundamental documents that are designed to partially alleviate the severity of these problems;

Socio-economic problems of Argentina are associated with uneven economic development of the country. The government of Argentina also solves the socio-economic problems of the state in its own way. The current president of Argentina, Cristina de Krishner, came to power under the slogans and ideas of the "left-wing", the main leitmotif of which (in the field of economy) is to reduce the country's dependence on foreign capital. In recent years, the country has been actively developing, and the system social protection population;

Chile, in general, is also among the most economically developed countries in the region. The main problems of the country are similar to those of Brazil and Argentina - a relatively developed industry does not provide a stable income and work for a certain part of the population. At the same time, Chile is the only country in the Latin American region where there has been no deterioration in social conditions in recent years, as well as the least corrupt country in Latin America. - Haiti is an example of the least developed country in the region. Its economy is based on extensive agriculture. The country's GDP is the last on the UN list, and the unemployment rate was 85% of the economically active population. The current governments of Haiti, in general, had neither the opportunity nor the strength to solve the socio-economic problems of the country. Their activities over the past 50 years have been mainly focused on a variety of negotiations for economic assistance from developed countries. The already catastrophic situation in Haiti was aggravated on January 12, 2010, when a devastating earthquake hit the country;

Speaking about the prospects for Latin America in modern world it can be mentioned that Latin America has a large and not yet fully developed resource potential, however, in the world economy and politics, it has traditionally occupied a peripheral position;

The main prospects for the socio-economic development of the studied countries of Latin America are as follows: the trend towards economic differentiation of the countries of the region will continue. Brazil, Chile and Argentina will increase the gap from the rest of the states. Venezuela's position will, of course, depend on the state of the oil market. Brazil will reaffirm its status as a rising giant and will step up efforts to create its own zone of influence in South America. The development of Haiti will remain at the same level (virtually zero) and will be determined by the consequences of the 2010 earthquake, which completely destroyed the already underdeveloped infrastructure of the region;

CONCLUSION

Now, in accordance with the goals and objectives set, we summarize the main conclusions of our work.

Latin America is the general name for countries and territories that are located south of the United States (more than 35 countries and territories). They are connected not only geographically, but also culturally. Most of the population of the region speaks two languages - Spanish and Brazilian.

Thus, Latin America has a rather limited role in the modern world. Experts emphasize that this region has a lot of prerequisites for further development.

Having familiarized ourselves with the fundamentals of the economy and politics of Latin American countries, we proceeded to analyze the socio-economic problems that take place at the present stage of its development - partly as a result of the peculiarities of the development of national economies, partly as a consequence of the political instability of the region. The main conclusions here are the following.

Modern agrarian relations of the countries of Latin America continue to be determined by the dominance of large landownership. The concentration of land ownership in the hands of a few owners is the main obstacle to the multilateral development of the region's agriculture.

These trends in agriculture are the main reason for the extremely slow growth of agricultural production, the growth of which is still associated with the extensive nature of its development.

Representatives of the business of these Latin American countries, in most cases, do not have sufficient funds for a significant expansion of production and development and modernization of infrastructure. Hence, the excessively high role of the state in the economies of these countries, as a result, the extremely high exposure of the economies of the states of the region to the consequences of financial and economic crises.

Another significant factor is that a significant part of the enterprises operating in Latin America are "joint" with foreign companies. It can be argued that within the framework of the joint production scheme, the share of the local sector is practically zero, and the value added is minimal.

These economic problems cause social problems. The main conclusions of their review and analysis are as follows:

One of the main social problems in the region is the dependence of the population on the agricultural sector, which is less developed than we would like. Hence unemployment, the low income of the overwhelming majority of the population, and so on. etc.;

The next economic problem that causes social problems is the relative underdevelopment of industry. The existing industries, in general, cannot provide jobs for everyone who wants it - hence unemployment, an increase in crime, the marginalization of society, and so on;

The factor of social destabilization of Latin American society, of course, is a sharp deterioration in the economic situation, leading to rapid changes in public sentiment;

The powerless position of the poorest part of the population, against the background of extreme inequality in the distribution of income, which intensifies social conflicts, is accompanied by the spread of violence and indicates significant shortcomings in the economic processes of modernization in the region”

Over the past decade, the lag in the modernization of the social sphere has been one of the basic reasons for the instability of Latin American society;

Another factor exacerbating the social problems of the region is the ideal conditions for the production of various drugs. Hence - drug addiction, the growth of crime, clans, etc.

Based on the main trends in the socio-economic development of the Latin American states, as well as an analysis of the economic and social problems that are typical for the countries of the region, we analyzed those government programs that are aimed at resolving those specific problems that faced the governments of specific countries of the region - Brazil . Argentina, Chile, Venezuela and Haiti.

Brazil is one of the most developed countries in Latin America. However, a relatively developed economy did not save the country from many socio-economic problems. The main ones are corruption, social conflicts and government bureaucracy. The Brazilian government, in general, takes seriously those socio-economic problems that are relevant to this country. Since 2006, the Brazilian government has adopted a number of fundamental documents that are designed to partially alleviate the severity of these problems;

Socio-economic problems of Argentina are associated with uneven economic development of the country. The government of Argentina also solves these problems in its own way. The current president of Argentina came to power under the slogans and ideas of the "left-wing", the main leitmotif of which (in the field of economy) is to reduce the country's dependence on foreign capital. In recent years, the country has been actively developing, as well as the system of social protection of the population;

Chile is the only country in the Latin American region that has not seen a deterioration in social conditions in recent years, as well as the least corrupt country in Latin America. This situation is directly related to the well-thought-out socio-economic policy of the country's leadership. This is due to the peculiarities of the history of this country;

Haiti is an example of the least developed country in the region. Its economy is based on extensive agriculture. The country's GDP is the last on the UN list, and the unemployment rate was 85% of the economically active population. The current governments of Haiti, in general, had neither the opportunity nor the strength to solve the socio-economic problems of the country. The already catastrophic situation in Haiti was aggravated on January 12, 2010, when a devastating earthquake hit the country;

In general, speaking about the prospects of Latin America in the modern world, it can be mentioned that Latin America has a large and not yet fully disclosed resource potential, but it has traditionally occupied a peripheral position in the world economy and politics.

The main prospects for the socio-economic development of the studied countries of Latin America are as follows: the trend towards economic differentiation of the countries of the region will continue. Brazil, Chile and Argentina will increase the gap from the rest of the states. The position of Venezuela will, of course, depend on the state of the oil market. The development of Haiti will remain at the same level (virtually zero) and will be determined by the consequences of the 2010 earthquake, which completely destroyed the already underdeveloped infrastructure of the region.

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Italics indicate areas that are culturally and linguistically distinct from the rest of Latin America, but are usually included within it.

Russia and the Ibero-American world in the 21st century: horizons for development and cooperation. - M.: ILA RAN, 2006. S. 7. Ibid., p. 92. Klochkovsky L.L. National Development Strategies and the Economic Future of Latin America. – M.: AST, 2006. S. 8.

Having considered the main trends in cooperation between Germany and the countries of Latin America, it is necessary to identify the main obstacles to its further development. Apart from external factors , which were described in the above chapter, namely the change in the US policy towards Latin America, the situation in the Middle East, the rapid growth of the economic and political influence of the Southeast Asia region, there are internal negative reasons. Among such reasons that are typical for Latin American states, the following can be distinguished: increased differentiation in the economic, political and ideological system of Latin American countries, an economic boom in the region that has been influenced by the global financial crisis, a new round in the development of integration relations in the region, as well as the lack of a unified policy towards the outside world, in particular towards the European Union. In the early 1990s, Latin America was a region whose countries were characterized by a similar economic and political structure. Today, after a decade, democratic institutions have been widely developed in many countries, but, despite this, neo-populist and nationalist sentiments determine both the domestic and foreign policies of individual states. The development of such sentiments has a negative impact on the investment climate within countries and the region as a whole, which naturally repels external investors, including European ones, from cooperation. At the latest summit, held in Chile in January 2013, Bolivian leader Evo Morales said he had revealed that European states had been exploiting the continent for too long to require any guarantee of their investments. In addition, the Bolivian leader pointed to the priority task - to provide the inhabitants of the country with access to drinking water and electricity. Concerns about the expansion of European business were also expressed by Argentine President Cristina Fernandez. “We must identify and prevent all asymmetries so as not to harm our own industry or, above all, people,” emphasized C. Fernandez EU Summit - Latin America 2013: results and prospects for Euro-Latin American relations http://www.dw.de . Here I would like to note that, despite the signing of strategic documents on mutual cooperation, a number of serious disagreements remain between the two regions, which negatively affect the course of their cooperation. One of the key problems between the EU and CELAC remains the nationalization of European enterprises by a number of Latin American countries. A striking example of this is the nationalization by Argentina of assets owned by structures of the Spanish Repsol. The divisions of this corporation owned shares oil company YPF and YPF Gas - 57.4 and 85 percent, respectively. In April 2012, the Argentine government announced the nationalization of 51% of the shares of both companies. The actions of the Argentine authorities were sharply criticized in the EU, USA, Spain, Mexico and in World Bank. Another example is the 2010 Bolivian reforms aimed at nationalizing the electricity sector. They strongly hurt the interests of French investors, whose share in this sector was 35.7 percent, after which France demanded immediate compensation.

The economic boom that has been characteristic of Latin American countries in recent decades should generally contribute to strengthening economic cooperation with the outside world, and in particular with the EU. But the results of this growth did not lead to such positive results. Firstly, because the growth rates of the Latin American region cannot be compared with the growth rates of Asian countries, which naturally pushes Latin America into the background in the ranking of priority regions. Also fast development now and the non-use of accumulated capital in the future can lead to negative, even crisis consequences. As for the integration processes, this is naturally seen by the European Union as a positive development. But the lack of effective integration mechanisms does not allow Latin American groups to build a common space in order to facilitate the process of conducting international dialogues. The reluctance of some states, such as Brazil, to make concessions to their neighbors exacerbates and noticeably slows down the process of effective political and political development. economic interaction in the region. The model of integration processes in Latin America is constantly changing, and the European Union sometimes simply does not have time to respond to such changes, hence the following problem: the lack of a common policy of Latin American countries towards the European Union, as well as the difference in interests pursued by specific countries in this cooperation.

It is noted that, during the entire period of negotiations, practically no clear conditions were put forward by the Latin American countries, except for constant claims to the Common Agricultural Policy of the European Union and requirements to open European market to import a wider range of agricultural products from Latin American countries. From this we can conclude that no official development strategies have been proposed by Latin America. This problem is now the most urgent, because due to the polarization of political and economic tasks individual countries, to develop a common strategy in relation to the EU is not an easy task.

The main ways for further interregional cooperation were also identified at the last summit. In the joint action plan for 2013-2015. in addition to the development of traditional areas, such as the struggle for social equality, environmental protection, countering terrorism and protectionism, important points bilateral cooperation has been a policy aimed at promoting trade and investment between the EU countries and CELAC, as well as various programs that have stimulated economic growth and the creation of new jobs in the CELAC countries for young professionals. At the opening of the summit, Chilean President Sebastian Piñera said that a "new strategic alliance" was being created in the field of environmental protection and the social sphere. Noting that the forum participants represent a third of all states in the world that produce more than a third of world production - about 60 countries with a population of 1.1 billion inhabitants, he stressed that they have a huge responsibility "for our countries and for the world as a whole" ibid. Also, at the summit for the first time at the same table with the leaders of the EU was the head of the State Council of Cuba, Raul Castro.

The last time a Cuban leader appeared in Santiago was 40 years ago during the reign of Salvador Allende. This turn of events is bound to be a turning point in the process of establishing closer political and economic relations between Cuba and EU countries. The EU believes that the reforms carried out by Cuban President Raul Castro have significantly improved the quality of life of Cubans and should increase the flow of direct investment from EU countries. The main directions in the relationship between the EU and Cuba is the development of common programs in the fields of education and health. Summing up the results of economic cooperation, the head of the European Commission Jose Manuel Barroso noted that “Europe is the largest trading partner of Latin America. But we are also witnessing an increase in investment from South America to Europe, which we are very happy about” ibid Both groups need to provide representatives national companies investing abroad, legal guarantees of the stability of their investments.

Further prospects for the development of diplomatic and trade and economic relations between Germany and the countries of Latin America present a rather rosy picture. After analyzing the main trade and investment cooperation between countries, it was found that over the past decade, the figures have doubled. Germany's attention is now being attracted not only by the region's economic giants, but also by the less developed Latin American economies. The level of humanitarian aid provided by Germany is increasing. For example, huge humanitarian support is provided to Bolivia, the total amount of which today is 1 billion euros Political and socio-economic cooperation between the EU and ALBA in the 21st century: problems and prospects. In the social field, projects coordinating the work of social institutions in Bolivia are being actively funded. Particular attention is paid to the state modernization and development of agriculture. According to the latest intergovernmental agreement between Bolivia and Germany, signed in 2009 in the capital of Bolivia, La Paz, Germany allocated 62 million euros to Bolivia for the implementation of these reforms. Also, charitable aid from Germany goes to Nicaragua in large volumes: annual aid from Germany is 10 million euros. A huge number of developments are underway and are planned to be launched in the field of developing new energy sources. For the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, German developers will introduce to the world community new solar-powered generators that will light up the entire stadium. Numerous projects for the cultural exchange of students and teachers are currently being developed. Federal Minister of Foreign Affairs at one of the conferences dedicated to the Year of Germany in Brazil: “From May 2013 to May 2014 we will hold a festival of ideas to build our future together. The strategic partnership should contribute to the development of cooperation both at the bilateral and multilateral levels Start the Year of Germany in Brazil https://www.deutschland.de”. Also, according to the latest news reports, projects funded by German companies are now being developed to develop infrastructure in the Dominican Republic, due to the growing popularity of this resort.

Germany's foreign policy towards Latin America is more focused on priority and more beneficial areas for Germany, but now, based on the ongoing changes in the Latin American region, Germany is forced to take into account the interests of individual states when building further strategies. Chile, Mexico, Argentina - absolutely all the states of the Latin American region have their own characteristics both in historical development and in the modern economic and political structure. But, despite this fact, the main task of Germany at the present stage is an attempt to help Latin America develop a unified policy in relation to the outside world, including Germany itself. By investing in the Latin American region for more than a decade, Germany, together with other countries, has managed to accelerate the pace of economic growth in Latin America. Thanks to Germany, individual representatives of Latin America are now competitors of many countries, even in the industrial production sector. Changes in the internal atmosphere in Latin America are forcing Germany to develop new strategies for further cooperation, in which both regions are undoubtedly interested.

Let us briefly analyze the main prospects for the countries of Latin America in the field of socio-economic development, in modern conditions.

Latin America has a large and not yet fully exploited resource potential, but it has traditionally occupied a peripheral position in the world economy and politics 53 .

At the same time, according to some experts, the leaders of the world economy are preparing a more “modest” place for these countries, connected mainly with the export and processing of those minerals that these states have 54 . We note in brackets that these arguments and considerations are typical for the entire region.

The prospects for the less developed countries in the region are far more questionable. Most likely, in a globalized world economy, most countries in the region will continue to have a clear dependence on the United States, as well as an export-oriented nature of the economy, based on the export of agricultural products or natural resources(as, for example, in the case of Venezuela).

Russian specialists have now prepared an analytical report on the prospects for the countries of Latin America. According to him 55:

The weight of the region in world GDP will not change, but will remain at the level of 7-8%, in the world population - 8-9%;

Brazil will confirm its status as a rising giant and will step up its efforts to form its own zone of influence in South America;

The consequences of the new situation can be very diverse and often contradictory, but its consequences for the socio-economic development of the region are generally assessed positively.

Thus, we summarize the next intermediate conclusions of our work:

Speaking about the prospects of Latin America in the modern world, it can be mentioned that Latin America has a large and not yet fully disclosed resource potential, however, in the world economy and politics, it has traditionally occupied a peripheral position;

The main prospects for the socio-economic development of the studied countries of Latin America are as follows: the trend towards economic differentiation of the countries of the region will continue. Brazil, Chile and Argentina will increase the gap from the rest of the states. The position of Venezuela will, of course, depend on the state of the oil market. Brazil will reaffirm its status as a rising giant and will step up efforts to create its own zone of influence in South America. The development of Haiti will remain at the same level (virtually zero) and will be determined by the consequences of the 2010 earthquake, which completely destroyed the already underdeveloped infrastructure of the region;

Federal Agency for Education

State educational institution

higher professional education

National Research Technological University "MISiS" _________________________________________________________________________________

Institute of Economics and Management of Industrial Enterprises

Department of Industrial Management

Coursework on the course "Strategic planning"

DEVELOPMENT OF THE 2020 REFINED COPPER MARKET FORECAST FOR CHILE

Performed:

5th year student

Groups ME-07-3

Teacher:

Moscow, 2011

Section 1. Development of a forecast for the development of Chile. 3

1.1 Characteristics of the country .. 3

1.2 Initial data for analysis. four

1.3 Analysis of the dynamics of Chile's GDP for 1972-2010 5

1.4 Forecast of the Chilean economy until 2020 8

Section 2 Current state and prospects for the development of national metallurgy. eleven

2.1 Characteristics of the national metallurgy. eleven

2.2 Dynamics of copper production in Chile for 2000-2010 eleven

2.3 Level of concentration in the national metallurgy of Chile. 13

2.4 Dimensions of the domestic market by main types of products for 2000-2010 16

2.5 Export potential of Chile 2000-2010 eighteen

2.6 Measures taken by Chile to protect its own market. 19

2.7 Prospects for the development of national metallurgy. 19

Section 3. Development of Chile's refined copper market forecast for the period up to 2020. twenty

3.1 The dynamics of the development of the Chilean economy 1972-2010 twenty

3.2 Dynamics of refined copper consumption in Chile 1991-2010 21

3.3 Calculations of the impact of general economic factors on the consumption of refined copper in Chile (elasticity) 22

3.4 Development of a forecast for the development of the metal market (by specific values) Chile for the period up to 2020 23

3.5 Comparison of the obtained results with predictive estimates made by foreign experts. 25

Summary. 25

Section 1. Development of a forecast for the development of Chile

1.1 Characteristics of the country

The Republic of Chile is a state in the southwest of South America. It borders Argentina, Bolivia and Peru. The territory of the country stretches along the Pacific coast for 4300 km and is mostly occupied by the Andes ranges (Main Cordillera of the Andes and Coastal Cordillera), between which lies the Longitudinal Valley - the main economic region of the country. The width of the country is from 15 to 355 km (about 180 km on average). The height of the Andes reaches 6880 m. There are many volcanoes. Frequent earthquakes.

In terms of the overall level of development, it ranks 25th among the 47 most developed countries in the world. It is the only country in Latin America where in recent years there has been no deterioration in social conditions. It is the least corrupt country in Latin America.

Chile's experience has long attracted the attention of economists and politicians. Chile is a country that has "significant transformations of the economy, extraordinary, sometimes profound changes in the national course."

The high pace of economic development, the strengthening of the country's international relations with buyers and suppliers, ever deeper integration into international trade, the growing volume of foreign investment, relative resistance to crises - all this provides ample opportunities for further economic growth and prosperity of Chile.

The leading sectors of the Chilean economy are the mining industry, primarily the mining and processing of copper and molybdenum, the food industry, agriculture, forestry and woodworking, fish farming and fishing.

Chile ranks 1st in the world in the production of copper (39% of world production), iodine (55%), lithium (42%), molybdenum (28%). In terms of silver and gold mining, it is in 5th and 13th places in the world.

Chile's main trading partner is the United States - 16% of both exports and imports. Japan is in second place in terms of exports (12.3%), China is in third (12%), and South Korea(6%). Among importers, Argentina (16%) and Brazil (13%) are in second and third place. The share of European countries in Chilean exports is 25%, in imports - 18%.

Since 2003, Chile has been actively implementing the concept “Chile is a platform country”, developed at the end of 2002, aimed at attracting foreign investment to the country by creating favorable conditions for the use of foreign investors national infrastructure (transport, financial, banking, etc.) as a kind of "springboard" for subsequent promotion to other countries in the region. The opening in Chile of more than 4,000 enterprises with the participation of foreign capital, including 40 branches of transnational companies, testifies to certain successes in this direction.

Chile traditionally ranks high in various international rankings, in particular - 16th place in the world (and first in LAKB) in terms of the integral indicator of competitiveness and 22nd place in the solvency rating (according to the IMF). Due to financial stability, timely payments external debt and loans, Chile has the lowest index of foreign investment risk among Latin American countries.