This study aims to look at the state of evidence on the link between secure property rights and development, with an emphasis on recent evidence in African countries, and identify where there are significant gaps that need to be plugged by further research.

​Articles in this special issue of the Development Policy Review explore the impact and effectiveness of transparency and accountability initiatives. A number of topics are discussed in depth, including transparency and accountability initiatives in service delivery, in the budget process and within the governance of natural resources, as well as ways in which transparency and accountability can be improved in the future.