Benjamin B. Olken

Benjamin B. Olken is a Canadian-American economist known for his research on development policy, governance, and corruption. He studies how government programs, especially in developing countries, can be made more effective by understanding the roles of oversight and transparency. Olken’s work often involves field experiments to test strategies that improve public resource management, such as reducing corruption or increasing the impact of aid projects. His insights help policymakers design better institutions and practices to promote economic growth and social progress in emerging economies.