Climate Change and Political Participation: Evidence from India by Irma Clots-Figueras

Join us for this week's event in the Applied Economics Research Seminar Series, Autumn Term 2021.

Professor Irma Clots-Figueras from the University of Kent will present a research seminar entitled Climate Change and Political Participation: Evidence from India

Abstract:

One important aspect of climate change is an increase in the severity and frequency of high temperature days. The previous literature has shown that high temperatures in developing countries reduce agricultural yields and incomes, while increasing mortality rates in rural areas. In this paper we study the effects of high temperature shocks on political outcomes in Indian State Legislative Assembly elections. We find that high temperatures increase voter turnout in a way that precisely mirrors their effect on agricultural productivity, suggesting that the income shock induced by high temperatures drives voters to the polls. In addition, we find that high temperatures affect the composition of the pool of candidates who stand for election by, for example, reducing the number of marginal candidates. Electoral outcomes are also affected, given that for example, we observe an increase in the number of candidates with agricultural backgrounds. Our paper thus provides preliminary evidence about the ways in which agents may respond to climate change via political channels.  

The seminar will begin with a presentation and will end with a Q and A session.

It will be held at 4pm on Thursday 2nd December. This event is open to all levels of study and is also open to the public. To register your place and gain access to the webinar, please contact the seminar organisers.

This event is part of the Applied Economics Research Seminar Series.