Is Information Power? Using Mobile Phones and Free Newspapers during an Election in Mozambique

A-Tier
Journal: Review of Economics and Statistics
Year: 2017
Volume: 99
Issue: 2
Pages: 185-200

Authors (3)

Jenny C. Aker (not in RePEc) Paul Collier (not in RePEc) Pedro C. Vicente (Universidade Nova de Lisboa)

Score contribution per author:

1.341 = (α=2.01 / 3 authors) × 2.0x A-tier

α: calibrated so average coauthorship-adjusted count equals average raw count

Abstract

African elections often reveal low levels of political accountability. We assess different forms of voter education during an election in Mozambique. Three interventions providing information to voters and calling for their participation were randomized: an information campaign using SMS, an SMS hotline for electoral misconduct, and the distribution of a free newspaper. To measure impact, we look at official electoral results, reports by electoral observers, and behavioral and survey data. We find positive effects of all treatments on voter turnout. However, only the distribution of the free newspaper led to more accountability-based participation and to a decrease in electoral problems.

Technical Details

RePEc Handle
repec:tpr:restat:v:99:y:2017:i:2:p:185-200
Journal Field
General
Author Count
3
Added to Database
2026-01-29