American Economic Journal: Economic Policy

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Aims & Scope

The American Economic Journal: Economic Policy (AEJ: Economic Policy) is a premier academic journal that publishes research at the intersection of economics and public policy. Launched in 2009 by the American Economic Association (AEA), the journal is dedicated to promoting rigorous, evidence-based studies that examine the design, implementation, and effects of economic policies. Its comprehensive scope reflects the complexity of modern policy challenges and the growing need for data-driven economic insights that can guide government actions, reforms, and interventions.

With a strong focus on applied economics, the journal provides a global platform for scholars to explore how public policies impact economic outcomes across various sectors and demographic groups.

Aims and Objectives

The primary aim of AEJ: Economic Policy is to support the development of well-informed, effective public policies through the dissemination of high-quality economic research. The journal focuses on empirical work, though it also welcomes theoretical studies that offer direct insights into policy applications. Papers published in the journal are expected to have clear, measurable implications for public decision-making and contribute meaningfully to ongoing debates in economics and social policy.

Main Areas of Research

The scope of AEJ: Economic Policy is broad, covering a wide range of policy-relevant economic topics, including:

• Labor Economics and Employment Policy: Analysis of minimum wage laws, unemployment benefits, labor market regulations, and workforce development.

• Health Economics and Policy: Studies on healthcare systems, insurance design, public health initiatives, and access to medical services.

• Education Economics: Research on school choice, public education funding, student achievement, and the economics of higher education.

• Taxation and Public Finance: Investigations into income tax policy, tax credits, corporate taxation, and fiscal federalism.

• Social Insurance and Welfare Programs: Evaluations of pensions, food assistance, disability benefits, and universal basic income.

• Environmental and Energy Policy: Empirical studies on climate change, carbon pricing, renewable energy incentives, and pollution control.

• Housing and Urban Policy: Research related to housing affordability, rent control, zoning regulations, and urban development.

• Development Economics: Policy analysis focused on poverty alleviation, education access, infrastructure, and economic growth in developing countries.

• Immigration and Demographics: Insights into how immigration policies affect labor markets, public services, and demographic shifts.

• Behavioral Economics and Public Policy: Application of behavioral insights to improve the effectiveness of government programs and regulations.

Policy Relevance and Practical Application

What distinguishes AEJ: Economic Policy is its emphasis on real-world policy implications. The journal prioritizes research that not only advances economic knowledge but also provides actionable insights for governments, NGOs, think tanks, and international organizations. Many of the studies utilize cutting-edge empirical techniques, including randomized controlled trials (RCTs), natural experiments, and structural models, ensuring robustness and relevance.

Global Perspective

Although based in the United States, the journal’s scope is global. It welcomes contributions that analyze policy issues in both developed and developing countries, allowing for cross-country comparisons and diverse policy perspectives.

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