International Economics and Finance Network

The International Economics and Finance Network brings together leading researchers and policymakers to discuss recent theoretical and empirical developments in international finance, with a particular focus on the macroeconomic challenges facing Latin American countries. For the past 27 years, the IEF Workshop has been held across the Americas and the Caribbean (see website), fostering policy dialogue and innovative research.

Latin American economies face a range of interconnected challenges, many of which are linked to political and institutional dynamics that impact fiscal policy and financial stability. Productivity growth has been stagnant for decades; social insurance systems are under strain due to demographic shifts, increased life expectancy, and labor markets characterized by high informality. Public finances remain vulnerable to fluctuations in commodity prices. While some countries have successfully adopted inflation-targeting regimes and fiscal rules, others still struggle with high inflation and debt distress, particularly during downturns in commodity exports. The Workshop aims to convene scholars working on open economy macroeconomics and other fields to understand the interaction between macroeconomic management, political institutions, and structural reforms in Latin America. Over time, this collaborative intellectual effort will help identify key challenges and inspire influential researchers to focus their attention on these critical issues. Ultimately, policy-oriented research of this kind should inform the design of sound economic policies that promote macroeconomic stability, prevent crises, and foster long-term growth.

The Workshop’s success is reflected in the publication of presented papers in leading academic journals and its influence on public policy debates, as evidenced by the active involvement of high-level policymakers and extensive media coverage.