Análisis comparativo de los sistemas de protección social y de la informalidad en América Latina

Abstract

Abstract: This study analyzes the impact of social protection systems on labor informality in Latin America. Using a panel of data from 13 Latin American countries between 2010 and 2019, the effects of different types of social security and other covariates, such as human capital, on legal informality were estimated. To this end, the study uses the Feasible Generalized Least Squares (FGLS) method, which allows for more consistent and efficient estimates. The results reveal that universal and integrated systems significantly reduce informality, while targeted or exclusionary schemes perpetuate it. Furthermore, significant effects of human capital and institutional variables are identified, highlighting the influence of corruption and state fragility. The paper concludes that reforming protection systems toward comprehensive models is key to mitigating informality, along with policies that strengthen institutions and labor productivity.