The Open Political Economy Analysis Programme (Open PEA) delivers practical political economy analysis on binding constraints in growth and development, with action-oriented advice for increasing the effectiveness of policy and investment, regardless of source of funds. Our products are public goods: high quality, open access, and written in plain language for mainstream audiences.

Latest publications – the practical politics of...

Cash versus maize in Malawi

19 March 2026

It’s imperative to reduce support for the maize economy. Cash transfers may offer a politically feasible way to get there.

Shacks along the railway tracks in Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh

Revenue in Bangladesh (prototype)

31 October 2025

Tax evasion is rife in Bangladesh, and the resulting low tax-to-GDP ratio is undermining the state's capacity to deliver social services. The tax administration needs to be depoliticised, now.

Mombasa's port, with two workers walking in the foreground

Public procurement in Kenya (prototype)

30 June 2025

In Kenya, public procurement is economically vital yet subject to systemic leaks. Kenya’s new e-Government Procurement (eGP) system can help tackle these issues, but successful implementation of eGP hinges on political leadership, sufficient funding, public communication, and coalition-building.

Open PEA blog

Ideas and assorted musings – we think about PEA a lot

Theory of change

In the right hands, PEA can unlock effectiveness, regardless of source of funds

Open PEA method

Our work is backed by scholarship and 20 years' experience inside and outside government

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