Family Policy Initiatives in Latin America: The Case of Colombia and Ecuador

Family policy initiatives in Colombia and Ecuador have targeted primarily families living in poverty. This paper discusses
some of the major policy initiatives oriented to improve the living conditions of economically disadvantaged families in both
countries. We argue that, even though governments recognize the importance of family policies, existing policies and programs
for families living in poverty do not directly focus on family issues. They represent more implicit than explicit family policies.
We analyze some of the issues that may hinder the development, implementation, and evaluation of family policies in Colombia
and Ecuador. Such issues stem from political and economic instability, legislation, changing family demographics, as well
as coordination among agencies that develop, implement, and evaluate policies. We discuss challenges related to family policies
in both countries and recommendations to improve existing policy initiatives.