A PRESENT STATE State capacity through state presence and the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Why have some states been successful in controlling the spread of SARS-CoV-2 and preventing deaths caused by it, while others failed to do so? So far, research has largely overlooked the role of state capacity in explaining this. In particular, the role of the territorial presence of states remains understudied. This thesis aims to fill this gap both theoretically and empirically. Theoretically, I argue that the highly contagious nature of the SARS-CoV-2 virus has put the territorial aspect of the state in focus. Through comprehensive territorial presence, the state can enforce collective action and implement policy on the ground, thus containing the spread of the virus and preventing new surges. The results of a cross-sectional regression analysis on a global sample of 85 countries showed that states that control their territories in full had, on average, up to 39 fewer deaths per 100,000 inhabitants in 2020 than states with less than full territorial presence.