The origins of state capacity

Elite-civil society competition promotes high-capacity states and societies

The capacity of the state to enforce laws, provide public services, and regulate and tax economic activity varies enormously across countries. A recent article considered how state capacity is influenced by competition between elites and (civil) society. Where elites dominate, despotic states emerge; where society dominates, weak states emerge. Where elites and society are evenly matched, high-capacity states and societies emerge because each side competes to keep up with the other. This research suggests that balance between different political stakeholders is crucial for strong and inclusive states.

Tanzanian state-building efforts had mixed effects on development outcomes

After independence, Tanzania undertook a wide-ranging state-building program to consolidate state authority and foster a national identity. A recent paper found that the program succeeded in those goals: it increased identification as a Tanzanian, interethnic marriage, respect for state authority, and trust in state institutions. However, it also increased approval of one-party rule, lowering demand for government accountability. Economically, the program led to improved local public goods provision in ethnically diverse communities but failed to promote economic growth. This research highlights the difficulty inherent in effective state-building: state-building activities should seek the balance between state and societal power that characterizes the most successful states.

Do you have a study we should share for a future Facty Friday? Send an email to drg.el@usaid.gov!