Public policies are governmental activities addressing societal problems. Public policymaking is therefore closely linked to the idea of problem-solving. This problem-solving, however, is situated in a political setting shaped by divergent interests, power games and inherent uncertainty about the future. How public policies are designed and implemented is, therefore, shaped by the interaction of a variety of actors pursuing their specific interests. Policy analysis is about the link between politics and problem-solving (enacting policies). This course introduces a governance perspective to the process of policymaking, including the design and the tools public policies. Specifically:
1. Governance and politics: What is governance, and how does it relate to politics, policies, and public administration?
2. What is the role of the state, and how does it relate to power? What is policy design, what tools do governments have to implement policies, how can they monitor performance?
3. Where do innovations come from, and how and why?
Main learning objectives:
Firstly, students will become familiar with the concept of governance as well as the elements and different stages of the policy process: How are policy problems put on the agenda of decision-making? How are policies formulated, implemented and evaluated? Secondly, students will review different types of policy instruments. How to make sure policies achieve their goals? How to make citizens and business follow the rules? Thirdly, students will understand the key role of actors and institutions in the policy process and their crucial role in shaping public policy: Who are the actors in the policy field and how do they interact? What role do ideas play in shaping problems and their suggested solutions? And how do institutions structure policy change, and how do innovations come about?