Henrique Pita Barros presents The power of dialogue: Evidence from a field experiment in Mozambique

Henrique Pita Barros presents at the WIDER Seminar Series on 01 March 2023.

The power of dialogue: Evidence from a field experiment in Mozambique

Abstract

Forced displacement can cause tensions between displaced individuals and local hosting communities. This study assesses the impact of a unique field experiment in Cabo Delgado, northern Mozambique, where a jihadist insurgency has resulted in nearly one million internally displaced people persons (IDPs). The experiment, implemented in the city of Pemba, was designed for bottom-up implementation and brought together IDPs and locals in community meetings to discuss their perspectives and experiences, and foster social-integration. Analysis of survey data, list-experiments, implicit association test and lab-in-the-field games showed that community meetings had immediate and sustained positive effects on trust and integration, as well as increased religious tolerance. The results suggest even brief but well-tailored intergroup interactions can have a positive lasting impact.

About the presenter

Henrique is a PhD Candidate in Economics at Brown University. His research focuses in the intersection of development economics, political economy and economic history, in particular the roots causes of conflict and how its consequences can be mitigated. Henrique is currently implementing a randomised intervention promoting the social integration of internally displaced persons in Cabo Delgado, Mozambique. Additionally, he is also studying the long-term effects of several policies in colonial Mozambique. Henrique holds a M.A. in Economics by Brown University, a MSc. and a BSc. both in Economics by Nova SBE.

WIDER Seminar Series

The WIDER Seminar Series showcases the latest research on key topics in development economics. It provides a forum for senior and early-career researchers, both in-house and external, to present recent and ongoing work related to UNU-WIDER’s current work programme.

In addition to providing a forum for both academic debate and training, the series presents an opportunity for policy makers and others interested in development to learn about the latest research methods and findings.

The Seminar Series events take place on Wednesdays. All those interested are invited to register and attend via Zoom or in person.