trAndeS is a structured research and training program conducted by the project partners Freie Universität Berlin and Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú (PUCP) in Lima.

trAndeS focuses on the multidimensional social inequalities of the Andean region and their impact on the opportunities for the realization of the SDGs.

Latin America and within it the Andean region historically has been the most unequal place on earth. These inequalities express themselves in extremely asymmetric opportunities for different individuals or groups (for instance indigenous people or women) to access income or other vitally important (such as water and land) or socially valued (security, health, education or a healthy environment) goods. Reducing inequalities is a mandate laid down in SDG No. 10. Given their multidimensionality, these inequalities are a transversal force that also significantly affect the opportunities for achieving the other SDGs.

trAndeS seeks to incorporate this important cross-cutting perspective into social science programs at PUCP thereby strengthening the university’s academic capacities regarding SDG-relevant issues. The program trains young people at the PUCP at the Master, Doctoral and Postdoctoral level. It supports original research that focuses on the relationship between social inequalities and opportunities for sustainable development and provides knowledge both on the actual manifestations of this relationship as well as on possible instruments able to overcome the reigning multidimensional social inequalities. The reach of trAndeS extends beyond PUCP as well, with its “TransAndean Network for Sustainability” (Red trAndeS) that promotes discussion throughout the entire Andean region and connects with research and training on sustainability conducted at FU Berlin.