Senator Antonio Taveras criticizes Dominican economic model

Senator Antonio Taveras Guzmán has stated that decades of economic growth in the Dominican Republic have failed to translate into widespread well-being for the entire population. Speaking at a political forum organized by the Pontificia Universidad Católica Madre y Maestra (PUCMM), Taveras argued that while economic expansion is a necessary condition for development, it is not sufficient on its own.

The legislator emphasized that political decisions are decisive in determining whether generated wealth results in social mobility and access to quality services. He noted that despite years of expansion, many sectors of society still face significant deprivations. Taveras suggested that poverty should be viewed as a deprivation of capabilities and access to essential goods rather than a personal choice.

To accurately measure national progress, Taveras argued that the country must look beyond GDP growth and average income per capita, focusing instead on health, education, housing, and employment conditions. He concluded by urging young people to engage in politics to help transform the current reality.