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The Distributional Effects of Fiscal Consolidation

Author

Listed:
  • Laurence M. Ball
  • Davide Furceri
  • Mr. Daniel Leigh
  • Mr. Prakash Loungani

Abstract

This paper examines the distributional effects of fiscal consolidation. Using episodes of fiscal consolidation for a sample of 17 OECD countries over the period 1978–2009, we find that fiscal consolidation has typically had significant distributional effects by raising inequality, decreasing wage income shares and increasing long-term unemployment. The evidence also suggests that spending-based adjustments have had, on average, larger distributional effects than tax-based adjustments.

Suggested Citation

  • Laurence M. Ball & Davide Furceri & Mr. Daniel Leigh & Mr. Prakash Loungani, 2013. "The Distributional Effects of Fiscal Consolidation," IMF Working Papers 2013/151, International Monetary Fund.
  • Handle: RePEc:imf:imfwpa:2013/151
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Jaejoon Woo & Ms. Elva Bova & Mr. Tidiane Kinda & Ms. Yuanyan S Zhang, 2013. "Distributional Consequences of Fiscal Consolidation and the Role of Fiscal Policy: What Do the Data Say?," IMF Working Papers 2013/195, International Monetary Fund.
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    7. Luca Agnello & Ricardo M. Sousa, 2014. "How Does Fiscal Consolidation Impact on Income Inequality?," Review of Income and Wealth, International Association for Research in Income and Wealth, vol. 60(4), pages 702-726, December.
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