Corruption blocks progress for the poor. They do not trust officials, politicians, police and other authorities. They suffer and fear discrimination and violence. Services which should be provided are not provided, are inefficient, or are of poor quality. Violence and crime are constant threats, especially in urban areas.
Women suffer and fear violence in their own homes.
Drug abuse and alcoholism are widespread. The World Bank is working in partnership with governments, civil society and the private sector in LAC to reduce poverty, exclusion and insecurity. It provides support, advice and financial assistance to these actors in line with a comprehensive development framework that aims to increase opportunity for the poor, foster empowerment of the poor, and increase long-term security for societies in the region. In 2000, the Bank responded to external financial shocks and natural disasters in LAC and helped people cope with poverty as well as sudden loss of jobs and, in some cases, homes. Assistance to help countries manage environmental resources in sustainable ways also continued, along with other efforts developed in consultation with local communities to improve the quality of life in cities and rural areas.