Working Paper February 1, 2026
Measuring State Capacity: A Subnational Index
B. Scholar, E. Analyst
Abstract
We propose a composite index of subnational state capacity built from administrative, fiscal, and service-delivery indicators, and validate it against independent measures of governance performance.
Abstract
State capacity is widely invoked but inconsistently measured. This working paper introduces a transparent, reproducible index assembled from publicly available subnational indicators, and demonstrates its predictive validity across a range of governance outcomes.
This is a working paper circulated for discussion and comment. Feedback is welcome.
- #state capacity
- #governance
- #index