María Migliore, a key figure in public policy and former Minister of Human Development and Habitat in Buenos Aires, highlights the significant impact that growing up in impoverished neighborhoods has on youths’ life paths. She argues that limited opportunities in these areas severely constrain the ambitions of many adolescents. Migliore points out that desperation often drives individuals to commit crimes, reflecting the dire circumstances they face in their communities.

Emphasizing the need for urban and social integration, Migliore believes that improving the quality of life in these neighborhoods requires access to housing with basic amenities. She advocates for comfortable living conditions—such as safe streets, adequate transportation, and essential services like water and electricity—as foundational elements that can foster a more equitable starting point for children in these environments. This holistic approach aims to break the cycle of poverty and inequality that traps so many in these communities.

As the director of Integration Productive at Fundar, a public policy research center, Migliore is actively involved in creating strategies that address these challenges. Her extensive experience in urban housing policy positions her uniquely to influence change, demonstrating a commitment to reshaping the socio-economic landscape of Buenos Aires and beyond. Her insights highlight the essential role of social policies in bridging the gap created by inequality during formative years.