The President of the Institute for the Promotion of Latin America and the Caribbean (IPDAL), Paulo Neves, participated on 1 and 2 June in Madrid in the Strategic Dialogue “Think Tanks and Governance for Sustainable Development in Latin America and the Caribbean”, an initiative organised by CAF – Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), with the support of the José Ortega y Gasset-Gregorio Marañón Foundation.

The event brought together leaders of think tanks, research institutions and organisations dedicated to public policy analysis and formulation from Latin America, the Caribbean and Europe, providing a space for reflection and exchange on the key challenges currently facing democratic governance, sustainable development and institutional strengthening in the region.

Throughout the two-day programme, discussions focused on issues such as political polarisation, trust in democratic institutions, the impact of technological transformations, the role of think tanks in public debate and the need to strengthen cooperation mechanisms among institutions committed to promoting democracy and sustainable development.

Paulo Neves highlighted the importance of strengthening spaces for dialogue and cooperation among think tanks, universities, policymakers and civil society organisations, stressing that the production of rigorous and independent knowledge remains essential for building more resilient, inclusive and democratic societies.

IPDAL thanks CAF for its vision and leadership in organising this initiative and acknowledges the important role the institution has played in promoting regional dialogue and fostering closer cooperation among stakeholders committed to the development of Latin America and the Caribbean. The Institute also expresses its appreciation to UNDP and the José Ortega y Gasset-Gregorio Marañón Foundation for organising a meeting that helped strengthen bridges of cooperation, promote knowledge exchange and identify new opportunities for joint work.

IPDAL’s participation in this strategic dialogue reinforces the Institute’s commitment to promoting knowledge, international cooperation and stronger relations between Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean, contributing to a plural and constructive reflection on the challenges and opportunities shaping the present and future of the region.