The Impact of Governance on Economic Growth in Middle East and North Africa: An Econometric Analysis Using Panel Data

The following research examines the relationship between governance and economic growth. The study aims to assess the positive or negative effects of governance on economic growth in a sample of 13 countries within the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region over the period 2002-2022, employing panel data estimation techniques. The results indicate that the synthetic governance index has a positive but statistically insignificant effect on economic growth in the region. Additionally, human capital is found to have a significant and positive impact on national economic growth. Conversely, trade openness, investment, and inflation rate negatively affect economic growth.