Dean Karlan

Dean Karlan, a prominent economist and former Chief Economist at USAID, joins to discuss his groundbreaking work in evidence-driven policy. He shares insights on building an office dedicated to cost-effectiveness in a politically charged environment and the importance of transparent learning in development. Highlighting challenges in navigating bureaucratic resistance, he reflects on the recent shifts in Washington politics and their implications for global aid. Karlan emphasizes the need for diversified partnerships and the risks of over-reliance on single donors in shaping future development efforts.