Training Policymakers in Econometrics

Abstract

Training deputy ministers in the school of thought associated with the credibility revolution increases demand for and responsiveness to causal evidence. Using a simplified Becker Degroot Marshak lottery, we randomize policymakers into an econometrics training program. Treated policymakers’ performance in national research methods and public policy exams improves by 0.5-0.8 sigma and stated valuation of quantitative evidence and commissioning of RCTs in policy making increases by 1.32 sigma and 300%. One year after the training, in their official duties, they are twice as likely to choose and triple the funding for policies for which there is RCT evidence.