Effects of international sanctions on age-specific mortality: a cross-national panel data analysis
Overview
Paper Summary
This study suggests a link between economic sanctions, especially unilateral ones from the US, and increased mortality in affected countries, with a death toll comparable to armed conflicts. However, the study relies on observational data, making it difficult to definitively establish causality and rule out other factors.
Explain Like I'm Five
Economic penalties on countries might lead to more deaths than wars, especially when imposed by the US alone. It's hard to know for sure if the penalties are the only cause.
Possible Conflicts of Interest
Two authors (SR and FR) received funding from CEPR during the initial research phase, but the manuscript was completed after their affiliation ended. FR also has outside affiliations as a consultant and expert witness, and as director of a non-profit.
Identified Limitations
Rating Explanation
While the study uses sophisticated statistical methods to address potential confounders, its reliance on observational data ultimately limits the strength of causal claims. The significant findings and policy implications warrant attention, but further research with stronger causal designs is needed. The disclosed COIs are noted but don't appear to critically undermine the research.
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