Export bans that weren’t really bans: How Russia kept importing military goods
Despite comprehensive export sanctions from Western allies against Russia, Western components continue to appear in Russian weapons. This column uses transaction-level Russian customs data combined
Why detours improve development outcomes
In Homer’s Odyssey, Odysseus does not reach home by following a flawless plan. His journey is defined by detours, storms, and course corrections. What matters is
Beneath the ban of abortion: Evidence from the USSR
Recent years have seen a renewed push to restrict abortion in many countries. This column examines the consequences of the abortion ban introduced in the
Is AI making us smarter or just making us look smart?
Here’s an uncomfortable truth: Students can ace every assignment in class and learn virtually nothing. Conversely, they can struggle through tasks and learn quite a
The unbearable lightness of promises
When reforms are judged by their plans rather than their impact, they risk drifting into the lightness of promises unmet. An “outcome reflex” mindset restores gravity—anchoring
The missing link: Why economic policy needs organisational economics
Europe faces slowing growth, ageing populations, and structural shifts. This column discusses how organisational economics can illuminate the impact of structural forces on Europe and
Measuring what matters for business: The new B-READY data in the World Development Indicators
What makes a country a great place to start and grow a business? Among low-income economies across the world, only 29% have a single centralized
How firms navigate parental leave: Evidence from Austria
Faced with declining fertility rates and persistent gender gaps, governments have expanded policies to support working families. But sudden increases in allowable parental leave can
Powering the energy future of Europe and Central Asia
The prosperity and economic transformation of Europe and Central Asia (ECA) hinge on making energy reliable and affordable for all. Across the region, many countries
