An Overview of Latin American Telecommunications, Past, Present, and Future

A historical perspective on the development of telecommunications in Latin America in the last decade is evolved in this introductory paper. The current national telecommunication situation is then considered with reference to three countries-Honduras, Colombia, and Brazil-with emphasis on planning and future programs. Because of the accelerating impact that satellite communication has had on Latin American telecommunications development, international, intercontinental, domestic, and regional satellite communication operation and plans are treated. Finally, some broad-gauge objectives for development and integration of Latin American telecommunications to provide economic growth and social and cultural benefits are presented.