"Agenda setting" refers to the critical initial phase where problems and issues gain public and governmental attention, becoming subjects for potential policy action. While 'agenda setting' itself is often considered the first step, it is an integral part of a larger, widely recognized framework known as the policy process model. This model outlines the journey an issue takes from its emergence to its final assessment.
The Five Stages of the Policy Process Model
According to a currently applied stages model in public policy, there are five fundamental stages that encompass the entire lifecycle of a policy, beginning with agenda setting. These stages are expressed as agenda setting, formulation, legitimation, implementation, and evaluation (Brewer and DeLeon, 1983; DeLeon, 1999; Sabatier, 1999: 6; 2007: 6). This comprehensive model helps in understanding how issues transform into policies and are subsequently managed and assessed.
Understanding Each Stage
To provide a clearer understanding, here's a breakdown of each stage within this policy process model:
| Stage Name | Description | Key Activities & Insights |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Agenda Setting | This is the crucial initial phase where specific problems or issues are identified and gain the attention of policymakers and the public. It determines what issues will be considered for policy action. | - Problem Definition: How an issue is framed to resonate with the public or policymakers. - Issue Salience: Factors making an issue prominent, such as a crisis or widespread public concern. - Actor Influence: Roles of media, interest groups, public opinion, and political leaders in bringing issues to the forefront. |
| 2. Formulation | In this stage, various policy alternatives and solutions are developed to address the problems identified in the agenda-setting phase. This involves brainstorming and refining potential courses of action. | - Policy Design: Crafting specific proposals, including goals, targets, and methods. - Option Generation: Researching, analyzing, and developing different approaches to solve the problem. - Stakeholder Input: Consulting experts, advocacy groups, and affected parties to gather insights and build consensus. |
| 3. Legitimation | This phase involves gaining official approval and legal authority for the proposed policies. It transforms policy proposals into authoritative decisions that carry legal weight. | - Legislation: Enactment by legislative bodies (e.g., passing bills in parliament or congress). - Public Acceptance: Gaining support from the populace through public discourse, debate, or elections. - Executive Orders/Regulations: Issuance of directives by executive branches or regulatory agencies. |
| 4. Implementation | Policies are put into action during this stage. It involves the execution of laws, programs, and decisions by government agencies, non-profits, and other relevant actors. | - Resource Allocation: Budgeting funds, assigning personnel, and distributing necessary resources. - Program Delivery: Providing services, enforcing regulations, and managing projects as outlined by the policy. - Bureaucratic Discretion: Public servants interpreting and applying rules, which can influence policy outcomes. |
| 5. Evaluation | The final stage assesses the effectiveness, efficiency, and impact of the implemented policies. This critical feedback loop can inform future policy adjustments, reforms, or even lead to new agenda items. | - Impact Assessment: Measuring whether the policy achieved its intended outcomes and addressing any unintended consequences. - Cost-Benefit Analysis: Assessing the economic efficiency of the policy in relation to its benefits. - Feedback Loop: Using evaluation findings to inform subsequent policy cycles, leading to termination, modification, or continuation of the policy. |
The Interconnected Nature of Policy Stages
While presented as distinct phases, these stages are often interconnected and iterative. For instance, evaluation findings can lead to new agenda items or modifications in existing policy formulations, demonstrating a continuous cycle. This dynamic interaction highlights the complexity and adaptive nature of public policy-making. Understanding these stages provides a structured approach to analyzing and participating in the policy process.
