Latin America faces significant hurdles in addressing economic inequality, as its tax and welfare systems remain ineffective at bridging the wealth gap. Observing areas like Buenos Aires, Mexico City, and Rio de Janeiro reveals stark contrasts between affluent neighborhoods and impoverished zones. These disparities highlight ongoing struggles within the region’s socioeconomic framework. This article appeared in the The Americas section of the print edition under the headline “Still divided” from the June 7th 2025 edition. It also touches on Suriname’s recent democratic developments, Mexico’s judicial situation, Venezuela’s political climate, and cultural trends in Latin American art.
— new from The Economist
