Pablo Alfredo Herken Krauer, aged 70, died today after being hospitalised at the Central Hospital of the Social Security Institute (IPS) due to gastrointestinal complications. His death was a surprise and a painful sadness for the entire economic sphere of the country. He was the most renowned economic analyst, journalist, social communicator, consultant, and lecturer in Paraguay’s high-profile media since 1989.
Known for his famous phrase “It hurts to say it, but it has to be said”, he left an important legacy in economic journalism as he was the first to have an opinion column related to the sector. With his great capacity for expression, he reached his readers clearly, directly, and simply way, maintaining coherence over time through his ideas.
A native of Tebicuary, he was a descendant of the migration of Germans who came to settle and form colonies in the 1980s. At his father’s request, his family decided to move to Asunción so that Pablo and his three siblings could study at the Goethe School, where he completed his studies.
Analysis of the economy
Part of his analysis this year highlighted that our respected economic stability is not an accidental but a result of inherent quality. “Clearly the slowdown in inflation is an indisputable sign of one of the most stable economies in the region, with an internationally recognised favourable track record, which, it is clear, is not an accident, but a quality that has enormous value,” he said in one of his articles published in January.
He also noted that “without making value judgments, but accepting and respecting the value of reality,” the once-common practice of smuggling cheap products from Argentina has diminished, affecting many families. The tables have turned, making Argentine products more expensive. Herken recommended prudent and responsible macroeconomic management, along with careful monitoring of the microeconomic sector.
In addition to his great analytical skills, the result of his studies abroad, Pablo Herken had a discipline learned at home and also at school with German roots. To complete his baggage of virtues, the economist always faced the columns he published in the pages of our newspaper head on, did not tolerate any kind of pressure and put forward his thoughts in a logical and loyal manner, always defending the interests of Paraguay.
His remains are being mourned in the Hortensia Hall of Jardín de la Paz Los Laureles, located in Cruz del Defensor 1.534, Asunción. The burial takes place tomorrow, September 2nd, at 14:00 at Jardín de la Paz de Lambaré. His famous phrase ‘’it hurts to say it, but it has to be said‘’, will remain engraved in the memory of all Paraguayans.
