The 20th century ended in a wave of
unprecedented modernization across Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC). The
region has reached a level of economic development never experienced before;
and the return to democratic institutions as a form of government, is not in
question anymore. More recently, several countries in the region have
demonstrated a strong desire in leaving behind long-standing ideological
confrontations.
We have witnessed as well, a notable progress
in the information and communication technologies, which has revolutionized
the productivity in our economies establishing a more dynamic trade.
Even more important than that, is the increase in the connectivity among
individuals and communities around the world. This phenomenon, which carries
with it a superposition of cultures, gives us, at the same time, the
opportunity to reconsider the kind of society that we want and eventually
forge a modern identity.
Despite such
significant advances, many individuals and communities in the region face
new challenges that threaten not only the prosperity attained, but also
put at risk the integrity of democratic governance. Therefore, in order
to better respond to recurring political and/or economic crises, our
societies and its leaders will have to re-evaluate their priorities, acknowledge
new responsibilities and work under the same vision, toward the construction of
genuinely participative and equitable societies. Only these actors can build
transparent governance as a society’s unique and irreplaceable common asset.
As the countries of the region continue to
integrate into the global community, the need for an innovative and
visionary leadership is imperative in every sector of society.
Forum Americas aims to promote those
individuals who are willing to craft a new code of leadership that is
consistent with an ever more interdependent world. To that end, the
Forum gathers present and future leaders from all walks of life to gain
access to the best practices in governance and leadership, and exchange views
with the most distinguished personalities and prestigious institutions from the
international community. Thus, new leaders will have the opportunity to analyze
why certain policies have succeeded while others have not, while supported by
an unprecedented intergenerational dialogue, that will prompt the shared
knowledge and experiences to become a distinctive force of renovation
for the benefit of our future societies.
On behalf of all the Forum Americas’
associates, affiliated institutions and sponsors, I am honored to present to
you a summary of the projects that make our goals a tangible contribution to
our ongoing quest for the betterment of our societies.
