ECLAC’s thinking. Towards an alternative development paradigm in a changing world

Resumen

Latin American structuralism, which had its intellectual epicentre in the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America (ECLAC), emerged as a critical response to orthodox economic paradigms in the mid-20th century. Despite its initial influence, the advent of neoliberalism overshadowed both structuralism and ECLAC’s policy influence. Over seventy years later, structural change and social equality remain pressing challenges in the region. This paper examines the evolution of ECLAC’s thought in the post-neoliberal era and its influence in policy making with a focus on four key areas: i) structural change and industrial policy; ii) equality and gender dynamics; iii) capital-labour relationships; and iv) the interplay between develop‑ment and nature. It offers recommendations for advancing an alternative development paradigm amidst contemporary transformations.