Political and economic structures are often designed to be inclusive, yet, in practice, they often fail to provide citizens equitable access to services and adequate political representation. At YIE, our governance-focused research aims to understand what changes, both large and small, can help citizens hold leaders accountable, and to help those leaders provide equitable, reliable access to public goods and support the well-being of marginalized populations. We look closely at electoral systems and the importance of inclusion within development and governance, investigating policy frameworks to remedy the cracks within these institutions. Through rigorous data analysis, field studies, and collaborative efforts, our research has uncovered novel insights into how governance reforms can improve the welfare of marginalized groups. We found that shifts in political leadership born out of revolution, greater transparency, and local governance reforms can lead to measurable improvements in policy outcomes, including more equitable public spending and enhanced civic engagement. How can we ensure that governance reforms translate into lasting benefits for all citizens.