Economics
How Clientelism and Patronage Affect Democratic Accountability
Quick fact
In many democracies, up to one-third of voters report being offered something by a politician in exchange for their vote, yet most of these exchanges are not about policy at all.
Why this is interesting
You might think that elections always let citizens hold leaders accountable for their performance. But what if politicians can win by handing out gifts and jobs instead of delivering good policies?