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Class warfare and socio-economic exclusion: the political-institutional consequences of left-wing terrorism

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  • Meierrieks, Daniel

Abstract

Using panel data for 168 countries from 1970-2008, we investigate how left-wing terrorism affects socio-economic exclusion. We find that higher levels of left-wing terrorism are robustly associated with increased political and economic participation of the poor, whereas no such relationship emerges for nationalist-separatist or Islamist terrorism. These results align with a conceptual framework in which governments respond to destabilization generated by left-wing terrorism with inclusionary policies tailored to address left-wing grievances; such measures are expected to weaken popular support for left-wing militancy and thus reduce future terrorist activity. At the same time, we show that left-wing terrorism does not induce broader institutional reforms – weakened property rights or expanded public ownership of the economy – that would reflect maximalist left-wing objectives. Overall, our findings suggest that terrorism can be effective in prompting targeted institutional adjustments, but it is not a viable strategy for realizing far-reaching political change.

Suggested Citation

  • Meierrieks, Daniel, 2026. "Class warfare and socio-economic exclusion: the political-institutional consequences of left-wing terrorism," EconStor Open Access Articles and Book Chapters, ZBW - Leibniz Information Centre for Economics, issue Latest Ar, pages 1-30.
    • Handle: RePEc:zbw:espost:343497
    DOI: 10.1080/10242694.2026.2651953
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    JEL classification:

    • D74 - Microeconomics - - Analysis of Collective Decision-Making - - - Conflict; Conflict Resolution; Alliances; Revolutions
    • O15 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - Economic Development: Human Resources; Human Development; Income Distribution; Migration

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