Government policy is the process by which governments determine how to act. Policies can influence a huge range of issues, from how much you pay in taxes to what sort of education your children receive. Governments are responsible for ensuring the law is enforced fairly and that citizens are safe from harm. They also need to ensure that the economy is stable and sustainable, and that businesses and individuals can thrive. Governments must also balance these goals with the desire to preserve natural resources for future generations.
Policy development is a complex and iterative process that involves a number of different factors, not all of which are under the direct control of government decision makers. One of the most important elements is agenda setting, identifying which problems warrant attention and deciding which should be prioritized. This stage often requires the consideration of social and ideological values.
The next step is policy formulation, devising solutions and considering the implications of each. This stage is often influenced by external factors such as global events or economic trends. In addition, political actors may be influenced by the views of their constituents.
Finally, implementation is the final stage in the policy process, putting the solution into effect. This phase usually includes determining the appropriate timeframe for implementation and establishing procedures to help ensure that the policy is executed correctly. This is also the stage at which a policy’s effectiveness can be assessed, with a decision being made on whether to continue the policy or modify it.