Unexpected events can also act as catalysts. War, while destructive, has historically created capital and strategic opportunities for countries such as Japan. However, without effective governance and rational policymaking, such opportunities are often squandered.

This thematic collection invites submissions that examine the intersection of politics and economics in shaping long-term development outcomes, particularly in emerging and developing markets. We welcome empirical and theoretical studies that explore how political institutions, leadership commitment to growth, and resilience to shocks contribute to or hinder economic transformation. Both quantitative and qualitative research methods are encouraged. Comparative studies involving advanced economies are also welcome where relevant.

Topics of interest include, but are not limited to:

• The impact of political stability and leadership commitment on economic performance
• Comparative analyses of countries with similar economic fundamentals but divergent growth paths
• The catalytic effects of external shocks (e.g. wars, global crises) on accelerating growth in specific contexts
• Institutional resilience and adaptation in response to economic or political shocks
• Case studies on growth reversals or economic stagnation
• Interactions between institutional quality, social trust, and economic performance
• The role of transparency, governance, and accountability in sustaining development
• Interdisciplinary approaches bridging political science, economics, and sociology

Out of scope: Purely technical economic modelling without clear links to political or institutional dimensions; country-level macroeconomic forecasting without theoretical contribution.

We encourage scholars in international economics, development studies, political science, public policy, and related fields to contribute to this interdisciplinary conversation.