Public policy is the government’s attempt to fulfill a public issue through the institution of regulations, laws and actions or decisions that are pertinent to the public issue. The formation of public policy can also be done by cultural institutions, religious leaders and other related parties. It is true that influence in environments of public policy depend on focus and power.
Public policies are formulated by people who are in strong positions in government or other institutions tasked to form public policies. For a public policy to be formed, all relevant stakeholders in the sector must be convinced that such a policy really needs to be developed. Therefore, only powerful individuals who have control over government mechanisms can influence public policy environment. Through power, an individual has a large network of people they can convince to support the policy formulation process. Lobbying other individuals for support in the policy formulation process is only possible when one has the power. People in power can lobby support by promising support in the future or trading support for other benefits such as positions in government.
Focus is also necessary when seeking influence in a public policy environment. Focus entails sticking to the main objective that one seeks to achieve. In public policy, every step undertaken should be inclined towards achieving the desired results in public policy formation. Therefore, there must be clearly stated strategies that will help maintain the focus on public policy formation. Deviating focus to other objectives may derail the public policy formulation process hence; the loss of influence. Focusing on the objectives helps influence the right individuals and keep the process on track.
Therefore, public policy environments are influenced by power and focus. Anyone seeking to influence the public policy process must have the power to sway and convince the right people. They must also have the focus to influence the right people and keep the process on track.
References
Caldwell, L. K., & Bartlett, R. V. (1995). Environment As a Focus for Public Policy. Houston: Texas A&M University Press.
SAPRU, R. K. (2010). Public Policy : Art and Craft of Policy Analysis. New York: PHI Learning Pvt. Ltd.
