Laura Alfaro Appointed as Chief Economist at Inter-American Development Bank
Laura Alfaro's appointment as Chief Economist and Economic Counselor at the Inter-American Development Bank marks a significant step towards addressing Latin America and the Caribbean's economic challenges through research and policy.

The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) has announced the appointment of Laura Alfaro as its new Chief Economist and Economic Counselor, a move that underscores the bank's commitment to tackling the region's most pressing economic issues. Alfaro, with her profound expertise in economic research and public policy, is set to lead the IDB's Research Department towards fostering productivity, competitiveness, and sustainable development across Latin America and the Caribbean.
Alfaro's role is pivotal as the IDB enters the implementation phase of its IDBImpact+ vision, aiming to integrate economic analysis more deeply into its operations and strategies. Her leadership is expected to enhance the bank's ability to influence public debate and translate research into actionable policies that address inequality, financial inclusion, and technological advancement, among other challenges.
Expressing her enthusiasm for the new role, Alfaro highlighted the importance of turning knowledge into impact, emphasizing the need for innovative solutions and collaboration to improve lives in the region. Her extensive background, including her tenure as a professor at Harvard Business School and her service as Minister of National Planning and Economic Policy in Costa Rica, positions her uniquely to contribute to the IDB's mission.
This appointment is a testament to the IDB's dedication to leveraging expertise and research for the betterment of Latin America and the Caribbean. Alfaro's leadership is anticipated to bring fresh perspectives to the bank's efforts in promoting sustainable and inclusive development, making her appointment a significant development for the region's economic future.