Technological changes, work, and inequalities in Latin America: Rethinking post-pandemic social protection options

Abstract

This article analyzes the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the heterogeneous and unequal labor markets in Latin America. It emphasizes the need for countries in the region to rethink their social protection options in the face of problems related to the growth of informality and work precariousness. In addition to demonstrating the very unequal incidence of these effects across Latin American countries, the article highlights the main risks they face in the current scenario of intense transformations in the productive system and employment relations, partly precipitated by the advent of the pandemic. Finally, the importance of intersectoral and coordinated social protection measures to face these problems is discussed, such as strengthening state capacities to implement passive and active employment policies, which are deficient in the region, and creating effective public systems for professional training.