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Historical prevalence of infectious diseases and gender equality in 122 countries

Author

Listed:
  • Omang Ombolo Messono

    (University of Douala, Douala, Cameroon)

  • Simplice A. Asongu

    (Yaoundé, Cameroon)

  • Vanessa S. Tchamyou

    (Yaoundé, Cameroon)

Abstract

This study examines the effects of the historical prevalence of infectious diseases on contemporary gender equality. Previous studies reveal the persistence of the effects of historical diseases on innovation, through the channel of culture. Drawing on the Parasite-Stress Theory, we propose a framework which argues that historical prevalence of infectious disease reduces contemporary gender equality. Using Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) and Two Stage Least Squares (2SLS) in a cross-section with data from 122 countries between 2000 and 2021, we provide support for the underlying hypothesis. Past diseases reduce gender equality both directly and indirectly. The strongest indirect effects occur through innovation output. Gender equality analysis may take these findings into account and incorporate disease pathogens into the design of international social policy.

Suggested Citation

  • Omang Ombolo Messono & Simplice A. Asongu & Vanessa S. Tchamyou, 2022. "Historical prevalence of infectious diseases and gender equality in 122 countries," Working Papers of The Association for Promoting Women in Research and Development in Africa (ASPROWORDA). 22/005, The Association for Promoting Women in Research and Development in Africa (ASPROWORDA).
    • Handle: RePEc:aak:wpaper:22/005
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    1. Messono O. Omang & Simplice A. Asongu & Vanessa S. Tchamyou, 2022. "Historical prevalence of infectious diseases and sustainable development in 122 countries," Working Papers 22/036, European Xtramile Centre of African Studies (EXCAS).

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Africa; Fixed broadband; Economic growth; Non-linear effects;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • E23 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Consumption, Saving, Production, Employment, and Investment - - - Production
    • F21 - International Economics - - International Factor Movements and International Business - - - International Investment; Long-Term Capital Movements
    • F30 - International Economics - - International Finance - - - General
    • L96 - Industrial Organization - - Industry Studies: Transportation and Utilities - - - Telecommunications
    • O55 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economywide Country Studies - - - Africa

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