The document discusses the effect of austerity on economies. It defines austerity as economic policies aimed at reducing government budget deficits through lower spending and higher taxes. While austerity aims to restore confidence and improve fiscal positions, it often leads to falls in aggregate demand, higher unemployment, and lower economic growth. The document outlines some determinants that can impact the effects of austerity, such as labor market flexibility, spending policies, monetary policy, exchange rates, and global growth. It also discusses the negative impacts austerity can have through reduced demand, lower output and inflation, as well as some potential positive impacts on competitiveness. The summary concludes that higher taxes and lower spending from austerity may improve budget deficits in the short-run but could lead to lower economic growth