Updates
🌟 August 2026 Issue Published: New research articles now available in our latest journal issue. Discover cutting-edge findings. Read More 📢 Call for Papers: October 2026: Submit your research for peer review. Open access publishing with global visibility. Read More 🚀 Continental Scholarly Publications: Join our new multidisciplinary research journal platform. Publishing excellence since 2024. Read More 🎯 Special Issue: Digital Health: Call for papers on digital health innovations. Submission deadline: September 15 Read More 💼 Early Career Researcher Support: Special mentorship program and reduced fees for PhD candidates and new researchers. Read More 🔬 New Research Areas Open: Now accepting submissions in AI Ethics, Climate Science, and Public Health Innovation. Read More 🌐 Global Academic Network: Connect with researchers from 65+ countries through Continental Scholarly Publications. Read More ⏰ Fast-Track Peer Review: Accelerated review process available. Get decisions within 3 weeks. Read More

Journal of International Trade, Commerce, and Economics

Peer-Reviewed Academic Journal
Research Article

ECONOMIC FORCES BEHIND PUBLIC DEBT ACCUMULATION IN THE GAMBIA: EMPIRICAL INSIGHTS FROM ARDL BOUNDS TESTING

Authors & Affiliations
Ebrima Lamin Sanyang
Department of Economics and Finance, School of Business and Public Administration, University of the Gambia, Gambia
Published: July 10, 2025
Volume 12, Issue 4 (2024)
Article ID: 995
Peer-Reviewed
Open Access
Abstract

The accumulation of public debt, a pervasive global phenomenon, has spurred intense debate in academic and policy circles, particularly regarding its determinants in developing countries. While some scholars attribute public debt accumulation to internal factors such as poor debt management and low government revenues, others emphasize economic factors including interest rates, economic growth, inflation, debt stock, budget deficits, public expenditure, openness, and monetary policy credibility. Additionally, socio-political factors such as political systems, corruption, electoral openness, competitiveness for legislative elections, and fraud have been identified as significant determinants of public debt accumulation, particularly in countries within the Central African Economic and Monetary Community (CEMAC) region. This paper critically examines the multifaceted determinants of public debt accumulation, drawing insights from diverse scholarly perspectives and empirical evidence. By synthesizing existing literature and empirical findings, it offers a comprehensive understanding of the complex interplay between economic, political, and institutional factors shaping public debt dynamics in developing countries. The insights generated can inform policy formulation and decision-making aimed at promoting fiscal sustainability and effective debt management strategies

Full-Text Access

Open-access article — free to read and share.

Publish Your Research in This Journal

Continental Scholarly Publications applies rigorous double-blind peer review to every submission. Our expert editorial board ensures your work meets the highest standards of scholarship before reaching an international readership.

Double-Blind Review Global Indexing Fast Turnaround Open Access DOI Assigned Wide Readership
Submit a Manuscript