The Word Is Not Enough: Testing the Effects of Information Treatments on Perceived Corruption in Ukraine

Yuriy Gorodnichenko, Ilona Sologoub and Yuriy Fedyk

No 35251, NBER Working Papers from National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc

Abstract: Using a representative sample of more than 7,000 Ukrainians, we study how information treatments affect corruption perceptions and prosocial behavior. We document a large gap between perceived and experienced corruption: while most respondents view corruption as widespread and a major national problem, far fewer report direct exposure. Through a randomized controlled trial, we find that informing citizens about successful prosecutions raises perceived government willingness to fight corruption but does not reduce overall corruption perceptions. Communicating the scale of corruption alone generates no significant effects. Information treatments have little effect on hypothetical or actual donations and volunteering, suggesting a limited pass-through from changed beliefs to prosocial action. Thus, while information interventions can strengthen institutional credibility, they alone are not enough to tangibly improve civic engagement or reduce perceptions of corruption.

JEL-codes: D73 O17 O52 P2 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026-05
Note: DEV
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Working Paper: The Word Is Not Enough: Testing the Effects of Information Treatments on Perceived Corruption in Ukraine (2026)
Working Paper: The Word Is Not Enough: Testing the Effects of Information Treatments on Perceived Corruption in Ukraine (2026)
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