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Evaluating the economic effects of the Ebola virus disease in Liberia: A synthetic control approach

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  • Amos Z. B. Flomo
  • Elissaios Papyrakis
  • Natascha Wagner

Abstract

We use the synthetic control method to isolate the impact of the 2014–2016 Ebola virus disease epidemic on the Liberian economy. We find a slight initial decline in the unemployment rate, followed by an increase of roughly 1% (p‐value ≤5%). The effect on inflation is more substantial (close to a 7% and 18% increase 4 and 5years after the outbreak) but statistically insignificant in the preceding period (2014–2016). We do not identify any other significant income and welfare effects. Synthetic control evidence for Guinea and Sierra Leone suggest even more limited long‐term impacts.

Suggested Citation

  • Amos Z. B. Flomo & Elissaios Papyrakis & Natascha Wagner, 2023. "Evaluating the economic effects of the Ebola virus disease in Liberia: A synthetic control approach," Journal of International Development, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., vol. 35(6), pages 1478-1504, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:wly:jintdv:v:35:y:2023:i:6:p:1478-1504
    DOI: 10.1002/jid.3736
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    1. Josh Matti, 2024. "The Long‐Term Economic Impact of Abenomics: Evidence from the Synthetic Control Method," Economic Papers, The Economic Society of Australia, vol. 43(1), pages 10-33, March.

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