This paper examines the relationship between fluctuations in financial remittances and public approval of incumbents across Central Eastern Europe, the Caucasus, and Central Asia. The study addresses a significant gap in understanding how economic transfers influence political support by analyzing time-sensitive data from multiple countries including Georgia, Kyrgyzstan, and Ukraine.

Data & Methods: Using survey data combined with remittance records collected over three election cycles (2019-2022), the authors employed mixed-methods analysis. Quantitative methods include regression analyses comparing approval ratings across regions during periods of high versus low remittances.

Key Findings: Results reveal that remittances significantly boost incumbent support immediately after arrival but this effect fades over time without re-investment opportunities (this is a key finding). Countries with recent capital investment initiatives show sustained effects, indicating the importance of economic feedback loops for political outcomes.

Why It Matters: The findings highlight how temporary financial boosts can influence electoral fortunes unless accompanied by sustainable development plans. This has implications for campaign financing and economic policy during election periods.