Exploring the Interplay between Leadership and Institutions: A Qualitative Systematic Literature Review of Their Role in Driving Economic Growth
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.70142/jbl.v3i1.72Keywords:
Leadership, Institutions, Economic Growth, Political Selection, Institutional QualityAbstract
This qualitative systematic literature review examines the interplay between leadership and institutions in driving economic growth. The study synthesizes evidence from influential and recent research on institutional quality, political selection, leadership capabilities, democracy, and national economic performance. The findings indicate that institutions provide the structural framework shaping incentives, accountability, political selection, and economic opportunities, while leadership influences policy implementation, institutional reform, and strategic decision-making. The review further shows that leadership capabilities are institutionally conditional: experienced and capable leaders are more likely to enhance economic performance when supported by accountable and growth-oriented institutions. In contrast, under non-democratic settings, leadership capabilities may contribute more strongly to regime stability than economic growth. The study concludes that sustainable economic development is best explained through the joint and recursive relationship between institutions and leadership, rather than by either factor alone.
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