Andean Region and Southern Cone

Overview

Breaking down the barriers that prevent people from participating in their societies will help build a more just and sustainable future for the Andean Region and Southern Cone.

The Regional Context

As democratic reforms take root across the Andean Region and Southern Cone, the countries we serve stand at a critical crossroads.

Despite evidence of progress—including more resilient economies and the stabilization of electoral regimes—millions of citizens, particularly indigenous peoples, Afro-descendants and women, are still shut out of opportunities to earn a decent living or participate in the governments that are meant to represent them.

As a result, widespread poverty and inequality persist, undermining the potential for recent progress to bring long-term security and prosperity to the region.

Our Goal

The goal of our work is to combat social and political exclusion and challenge racial discrimination.

We believe that tackling discrimination and social exclusion can serve as the linchpin for unleashing broader and more equitable development across the region.

What We're Doing

Our work focuses on:

Building the leadership necessary to confront social and political exclusion
Promoting smart, effective public policies to combat discrimination
Supporting thoughtful approaches to help more people overcome poverty
Developing innovative ways to engage the business community in new solutions
Ensuring universities, government agencies and civil society groups are more inclusive of women and minorities

Our grant making in the region is pursued through the following initiatives.

Issue	Initiative
Democratic and Accountable Government	Promoting Transparent, Effective And Accountable Government
Human Rights	Advancing Racial Justice And Minority Rights Strengthening Human Rights Worldwide
Economic Fairness	Building Economic Security Over A Lifetime Expanding Livelihood Opportunities For Poor Households
Educational Opportunity and Scholarship	Advancing Higher Education Access And Success

From the Newsroom

In the Headlines: Sustainable Development Director on Putting People First Worldwatch Institute blogs two-part in-depth interview with David Kaimowitz
News from Ford: Ford Foundation Commits $85 Million to Advance Rural Land Rights and Reduce Climate Change Five-year program aims to empower rural communities in developing countries whose livelihoods depend on natural resources
In the Headlines: Letter to the Editor: On Natural Resource Stewardship Ford Foundation Director of Sustainable Development responds to recent New York Times article