Government policy defines a course of action that influences the ways in which institutions carry out their work, from funding to hiring to firing. It can also shape what kind of education you receive, the taxes you pay, where you live, and how much you drive. It can include laws, regulations, and even statements of intention and purpose. It can be influenced by many different factors, including the ideologies of people in power and those who are allied with them, economic interests, environmental concerns, and even national security objectives.
The policy process begins with the perception of a problem, which may emerge from media reports, politicians or citizen groups. People then formulate ideas about how to resolve the issue and try to persuade others to support them. This is often called the policymaking process, and the outcomes of this stage can have a profound impact on public opinion and government effectiveness.
Once an idea gains sufficient support, it can be put into practice by the governing body, which can then create specific legislation or directives to guide the way in which activities are carried out. A common tool in understanding policymaking is the policy cycle, which identifies the stages that must take place for an effective policy to be developed and implemented.
In the policy arena, it is essential that all participants understand and follow established rules of engagement. This includes those who are allied with the government and those who oppose it, and it also applies to non-governmental organizations and civil society. OGP members are working hard to root out undue influence and kleptocracy across borders, so that governments can be transparent, inclusive, and accountable.
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