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News, ideas, and analysis from J-PAL staff and affiliated professors. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive monthly email updates.

A woman harvesting rice in a field.

The Evidence Effect: The unique value of aid and philanthropy—four essential roles

Governments and local communities are leading the charge on delivering services at scale. When focused on the right things, donor capital—both bilateral and philanthropic—doesn’t have to and generally shouldn’t replace government funding. It should play a catalytic role to spark innovation, spread...
High school students in Brazil sit at desks in a classroom.

The Evidence Effect: How technology and smart policies can transform government service delivery

The work of government is challenging in high- and low-income countries alike. Today, new problems compound to make the work of government even harder: Governments must tackle poverty and address climate change while many are in the midst of debt and fiscal crises that were compounded by Covid.
A woman wearing a green head scarf stands holding a child. In the foreground is a counter with a bag of subsidized rice.

The Evidence Effect: How LMIC governments drive and scale effective poverty reduction policies

Most LMIC governments invest far more in their own social programs—which include health care, education, and social safety nets—than all foreign aid combined. While foreign assistance has been in the spotlight this year, LMIC governments are the ones that make financial commitments, set priorities...
A child drawing in chalk on the floor

The Evidence Effect: Smarter development starts with evidence

Policymakers are facing a steep challenge: They need to address urgent development priorities with shrinking resources.
Two farmers uproot rice seedlings for transplantation during monsoon season in India.

The Evidence Effect: Ideas for the future of development

With fewer resources available, the bar is even higher for deciding which social sector and development programs to invest in. Evidence can help governments, funders, and implementing organizations navigate today’s challenges and make more effective and cost-effective decisions.