econlib.org/econlog/the-invisible-shackle-how-bureaucracy-stifles-the-economy-and-constrains-our-freedom The Invisible Shackle: How Bureaucracy Stifles the Economy and Constrains Our Freedom
The Index of Bureaucracy 2026 covers 27 countries and finds small firms spend an average of 1,638 hours opening, 1,178 hours yearly running, and 3,654 hours closing. It estimates the lost productivity at 16.5% of GDP and proposes reforms such as a "1-in, 2-out" rule and positive administrative silence.
