The EBPM Seminar Series at the Department of Public Policy brings external academics and practitioners to discuss their ongoing research. This event series prioritizes understanding how data, observations, and ultimately evidence is approached by each researcher.
Abstract:
We investigate how legislators respond to statistical performance indicators. In France, such indicators were introduced by "NosDéputés.fr," an NGO-founded website in 2009. Our analysis reveals an improvement in legislators' performance according to these indicators after their inception. Specifically, we observe enhancements in attendance, interventions, and questions posed. This effect is further amplified by media coverage of the indicators. However, when examining dimensions not encompassed by the performance indicators, we do not observe an improvement in legislators' performance. Additionally, we uncover indications of manipulation of these indicators. Notably, the surge in questions posed is partially attributable to redundant inquiries. In summary, we assert that statistical performance indicators yield a nuanced impact on political accountability.
Authors: Tom Buchot (ENS de Lyon), Charles Louis-Sidois (Vienna University of Economics & Business), & Elisa Mougin (ENS de Lyon)
About the Speaker
Charles Louis-Sidois is an Assistant Professor at the Vienna University of Economics and Business (WU).