Commentary
The Institute publishes a series of 'Observations', which use our research to explain the facts behind topical policy debates. IFS staff also publish articles in a variety of national newspapers, blogs and specialist magazines to help inform the public debate.
For reports and academic publications, see our publications page.
Our press releases and public finance bulletins can be found on our News page.
Latest Observations
Observation
Almost all the candidates in the Conservative leadership election have promised higher levels of spending on education. With a Spending Review of some form due this year, we analyse the cost of potential commitments on schools and education spending.
Observation
In this short observation, we set out new research about the recent changes to household incomes, and who has been most affected by the recent slowdown in household income growth.
Observation
Some have claimed that Boris Johnson's tax pledges mean Scots would end up paying for a tax cut for higher earners in the rest of the UK. This is not the case.
Recent newspaper articles
Newspaper article
Few things matter more than clarity over fiscal and economic strategy. We really should know a little more about where our potential future leaders stand on them.
Newspaper article
Our research looks at the impacts that Sure Start had on children’s health during their primary school years from its start in 1999 and its peak in the late 2000s.
Newspaper article
In November last year, Nigeria declared that its water supply, sanitation and hygiene sector was in crisis. A community-level intervention aims to reduce open defecation and improve toilet coverage. So why does it work in some places and not others?