Project Description
The primary objective of this research is to understand how political, social, and economic factors influence a country's ability to manage or reduce high public debt. The research aims to answer two specific questions: What institutional features (such as welfare systems and fiscal governance) enable some advanced economies to sustain high debt levels while others face market or social crises? Which specific policy reforms (e.g., fiscal tightening, pension reform) can successfully reduce debt-to-GDP ratios without triggering significant social unrest or political instability? The ultimate goal is to identify fiscal and institutional frameworks that promote long-term debt sustainability without undermining social stability, offering insights for policymakers in advanced economies. he research will employ a comparative case study analysis. Cases: The United States, the United Kingdom, Japan, and France. Time Period: 1990–2025. This methodology will be used to compare how interactions between aging populations, established welfare systems, and national fiscal governance have produced different debt outcomes in these four nations.
Tasks and Responsibilites
The undergraduate research assistant will contribute to multiple phases of this project. The student will collect data, perform literature review and run scenario analysis.
Desired Qualifications
None listed.