During a crisis, does ethnic composition influence policy efficiency? How do the effects of ethnic divisions differ from those of ethnic diversity? Using the lens of the COVID-19 pandemic, we show that ethnic divisions, rather than diversity, significantly reduce the efficacy of crisis response. U.S. counties with higher levels of ethnic divisions fared worse after lockdowns in COVID-19 cases and deaths. Diversity had little effect, except in highly segregated areas. Results are not driven by differences in politics, public goods, socioeconomics, or levels of high-risk populations.
Time Period: 3/1/2020 – 3/31/2020 (March 2020)
