Policy Processes: Issues, Agenda Setting, Formulation and Implementation

Abstract

Policy processes are the cornerstone of governance in modern societies. They involve a series of stages that guide the creation, execution and consequent evaluation of government policies. These stages are interconnected which reflect the nature of public policy. The policy process typically begins with the identification of societal issues or problems that require attention. These issues can range from economic challenges to social inequalities, environmental concerns, or public health crises. Once issues are identified, the next step is agenda setting. This entails deciding which issues should be prioritized for policy action. Political factors, public opinion, media attention, and lobbying efforts can all influence the agenda-setting process. Besides, policy formulation is the stage where specific proposals or strategies are developed to address the identified issues. It requires a profound examination of available data, research, and consideration of various policy options. After a policy is formulated and approved, it enters the implementation phase. This stage typically encompasses putting the policy into action. It requires the allocation of resources, coordination among government agencies, and engagement with stakeholders. Thus, taking these aspects of policy processes into consideration, this research paper seeks to offer an extensive overview of the policy processes by elucidating its nature and the important role it plays in shaping societies. It also attempts to assess the challenges associated with issue identification by analyzing how diverse factors influence the prioritization of problems within the public sphere. The paper further investigates the mechanisms behind agenda setting and an interplay between political actors, state
institutions and societal demands.