The Cost of Crime in Latin America and the Caribbean
According to a new study by the Inter-American Development Bank, crime and violence cost the region $261 billion every year, equivalent to over 3.5% of GDP. This figure helps underscore how security concerns broadly impact Latin American societies and how insecurity has a significant economic cost in addition to its human consequences. In this sense, citizen security efforts can be framed as an investment. Accurately quantifying the impacts of crime and violence may help guide policymakers in devoting adequate resources to combat insecurity.
The Inter-American Development Bank and the Inter-American Dialogue are pleased to host this report launch and open discussion on calculating the cost of crime and how to apply the findings in shaping more effective public policies.
Read the report here.
Follow this event on Twitter at #CostofCrime, @The_Dialogue, and @BID_Seguridad.
Introductory RemarksNathalie AlvaradoPrincipal Specialist, Citizen Security, Inter-American Development Bank (@CSJNathalie) |
CommentatorsAngela MeChief, Research and Trend Analysis Branch, |
SpeakerLaura JaitmanCitizen Security Specialist, Inter-American Development Bank (@laurajaitman) |
Desmond AriasAssociate Professor, George Mason University
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ModeratorMichael ShifterPresident, Inter-American Dialogue (@MichaelShifter) |
A light breakfast will be served