The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences

Daron Acemoglu, Simon Johnson, and James A. Robinson have provided groundbreaking insights into why nations experience vast differences in prosperity. Their innovative studies reveal that a key explanation lies in the persistent impacts of colonial institutions introduced by European settlers. Through empirical and theoretical research, they demonstrated how extractive institutions suppressed economic growth, while inclusive institutions fostered long-term development. Their work illuminates the profound influence of historical institutions on modern economic outcomes and highlights pathways for fostering inclusive reforms.