Privatization of Utilities Falls Out of Favor in Latin America
Across Latin America, a growing number of people say the privatization of public services, a movement that swept the region in the 1980s and 1990s, has failed.
Protests have erupted over the issue in several countries, and some governments are beginning to reverse these policies. Recently, Argentina announced it was rescinding its 30-year contract with the French company Suez and reinstating government control of the water supply.
Last week, representatives from 148 countries gathered in Mexico for the World Water Forum, held every three years to discuss global water supplies. The forum voted to issue a decree stating that governments -- not private companies -- should hold primary responsibility for providing safe drinking water. Bolivia, Cuba, Venezuela and Uruguay attached a separate statement noting their "profound concern" about the possible negative impacts of international investment agreements and free trade.
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