Innovation Roadmap: A Protected and Resilient Paraguay

The Innovation Roadmap: A Protected and Resilient Paraguay (Hoja de Ruta de Innovación: Paraguay Protegido y Resiliente) is Paraguay’s first mission-oriented innovation roadmap, developed under the framework of the National Innovation Strategy (ENI). This comprehensive policy document outlines a long-term vision for using science, technology, and innovation (CTI) to build a more protected, resilient, and inclusive society. It was developed under Decree 2314/19 with support from CAF (Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean).

Purpose and structure

The roadmap is part of Paraguay’s broader strategy to shift from general, thematically neutral CTI policies toward mission-oriented innovation strategies. It focuses on the strategic challenge ‘Paraguay Protegido y Resiliente‘, aimed at strengthening the country’s capacity to face natural disasters, health emergencies, climate change, and social vulnerabilities.

The document is structured into several chapters covering:

1. The roadmap development process
2. Future vision and scope
3. Global and national megatrends
4. Strategic drivers (impulsores), programs, and actions
5. Enabling factors (recursos y capacidades habilitantes)
6. Implementation timeline, key actors, and indicators

Vision

The roadmap aspires to shape a socially cohesive, healthy, and participatory society, resilient to disasters and capable of long-term planning. It aims to foster:

• Inclusive public participation and critical thinking
• Trust in democratic institutions
• Effective use of technology in public policy and governance
• Sustainable growth through smart cities and data-driven health and social systems

Methodology and development

The process began in 2023 with workshops involving experts from academia, government, and the private sector. A standard ‘roadmapping‘ methodology was applied to co-create actionable strategies. This included identifying gaps between current and desired capacities in CTI and mapping necessary interventions.

Megatrends and national challenges

The roadmap acknowledges global and regional megatrends that impact Paraguay, including:

• Climate change (heatwaves, forest fires, droughts, floods)
• Demographic shifts (ageing population)
• Health threats (epidemics, chronic disease)
• Institutional erosion (distrust in government, misinformation)

It also details national vulnerabilities, such as:

• Limited health system preparedness (e.g., ICU beds, epidemic response)
• Rising social inequality, poverty, and informality
• Disparities in education, disability inclusion, and rural development

Strategic drivers and goals

The roadmap defines ejes verticales (drivers) like:

• Enhancing social protection systems for the elderly, disabled, and vulnerable groups
• Increasing resilience to unemployment, disasters, and economic shocks
• Improving service quality in health, education, and social security
• Promoting financial resilience and inclusive employment
• Expanding science-based public policy and data governance
• Combating misinformation and strengthening civil society

Enabling factors

Critical cross-cutting enablers include:

• Human capital and advanced skills
• Digital and physical infrastructure
• International cooperation and sustainable governance
• Legal and policy frameworks supporting innovation

Implementation

Actions are planned across three timeframes:

• Short term (first 18 months)
• Medium term (5–7 years)
• Long term (up to 15 years)

The roadmap positions the challenge of a more resilient Paraguay as a pilot model to be replicated for other innovation challenges and sectors. It highlights opportunities for Paraguay to lead regional efforts in exporting talent and sharing innovation experiences.