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Social unrest, subjective well-being, and active government: Evidence from a global sample

Author

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  • Dao Van Le

    (Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam)

  • Tuyen Quang Tran

    (Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam)

Abstract

This study presents fresh evidence on the impact of social unrest on the subjective well-being of approximately 400,000 individuals worldwide from 1981 to 2022. Utilizing data from a media reports platform allows us to capture the effects of unrest with a lag of about one month, as opposed to conventional national-level data. The results provide clear evidence of a growing negative effect of regional instability — causing a decline in people's welfare. Notably, examining government actions during this period using the Integrated Macroprudential Policy (iMaPP) Database reveals that governments may mitigate the adverse effects of social unrest on citizens' satisfaction through policies concerning liquidity adjustments and relaxed reserve requirements. Still, most other actions appear to exacerbate the situation. The findings of this study suggest practical implications for the design of prudent policy measures during periods of instability to enhance the subjective well-being of their citizens.

Suggested Citation

  • Dao Van Le & Tuyen Quang Tran, 2025. "Social unrest, subjective well-being, and active government: Evidence from a global sample," Russian Journal of Economics, ARPHA Platform, vol. 11(4), pages 444-464, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:arh:jrujec:v:11:y:2025:i:4:p:444-464
    DOI: 10.32609/j.ruje.11.163408
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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • D63 - Microeconomics - - Welfare Economics - - - Equity, Justice, Inequality, and Other Normative Criteria and Measurement
    • E61 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Macroeconomic Policy, Macroeconomic Aspects of Public Finance, and General Outlook - - - Policy Objectives; Policy Designs and Consistency; Policy Coordination

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