Ministers Engage in Favoritism Too
通过收集36个非洲国家2001-2015年所有内阁部长的出生地信息，研究卫生部长等关键职位对新生儿和婴儿死亡率的影响，发现来自同一地区的卫生部长会降低当地死亡率，尤其是弱势群体，并增加医疗可及性。
To study favoritism by cabinet members in 36 African countries, we hand-collect birthplace information for all cabinet members (2001–2015). Focusing on health outcomes, we provide causal evidence of favoritism by health ministers and, less so, key ministers. Neonates’ and infants’ mortality is lower when the current health minister originates from their region, especially for children of vulnerable (rural-based or uneducated) mothers. Co-regional health ministers also increase healthcare access at birth, particularly for vulnerable mothers. Thus, healthcare access likely explains part of the mortality-lowering effects. We find evidence for ethnic motives playing a role in favoritism but not (short-run) electoral motives.