Public Policy and the Process of Public Policy Formulation

Defining Public Policy and the Process of Public Policy Formulation

"Policy is the condition of the past made by the present for the future."

Public Policy

• Public policy refers to the guidelines adopted by the government for the comprehensive welfare and development of the country and its people. It is broad, purpose-driven, and result-oriented.
• It is the commitment or declaration made by the government in the process of fulfilling promises made to citizens. It also serves as a link between the government and the public.
• Public policy encompasses decisions made by the government on matters of public concern. These are formally issued by authorized officials or institutions.
• The country’s constitution, laws, regulations, directives, procedures, annual budgets, plans, and sectoral policies are considered public policies.

Public Policy Formulation Process

The public policy formulation process involves the creation, analysis, and implementation of the state’s intent. These stages are interconnected and complementary. Policy formulation is done for implementation, while analysis is a key aspect of the policy cycle.

(A) Public Policy Formulation

• Identifying the demand for a policy and drafting it.
• Deciding on the drafted policy.
• Politics leads policy decisions, while the administration provides data and information.
• Policy formulation involves stakeholders and consultations.
• The formulated policy should address needs, resolve problems, and institutionalize change.

(B) Public Policy Analysis

• Analyzing the impact and effectiveness of the policy.
• This occurs throughout the policy cycle, particularly after formulation and before implementation.
• It facilitates ease and dynamism in policy implementation.
• Being a purely professional task, it involves the participation of experts.
• In our country, policy analysis has not been prioritized, as policies are often formulated in haste and implemented leisurely.

(C) Public Policy Implementation

• Translating policy into practice.
• Policies are formulated for the purpose of implementation.
• The administration is structured to implement policies.
• Politics provides support and assistance in policy implementation.
• In Nepal, good policies are often formulated, but there are accusations of ineffective implementation.

Conclusion

Public policy, often described as “yesterday’s education, today’s desire, and tomorrow’s expectation,” should guide the nation. For this, policies must be evidence-based, participatory, and aligned with national interests. Their formulation, scientific analysis, and implementation are essential. The formulation of good policies and the development of effective leadership are the country’s current primary needs.