Have you ever felt like the policy game don’t quite make sense? They shape everything from the air we breathe to the opportunities that we have. Yet, it feels as though you do not have a control of the game? You can’t get involved? Your voice is not heard? You don’t even know the rules?
The good news is, you’re not just a spectator!
You are and can be an active player in the policy game.
In this two part series, I will break down the ‘who’ and ‘how’ policies are made in a country context, so that you can get involved and make a real impact. In essence, this will guide you to making a difference. (Note: This guide is based on a general Commonwealth country context. Non-Commonwealth country may have slight variation to their institutional structure and system.)
In this first part of the ‘You’re not just a spectator!’ series, I shall explain the actors of policy making.
Simplistically, who make policies?
Now, let’s imagine the policy game as a massive national tournament with different teams and players. This could be your national football, cricket, hockey, badminton or even tennis championships.
Sitting right at the top of the tournament are the big bosses, or governing body. In the policy game, they’re known as the government.
Within this powerhouse (government), there are three teams, namely:
1. The Rule Creators (Legislative branch)
Simplistically, think of them as the architects of the game. These folks are the Senators and Member of Parliaments, elected by us, to create the rules that everyone must follow. These folks are the ones proposing, debating and voting on new laws and policies.
2. The Doers (Executive branch)
This is the civil service and the cabinet ministers. They work in different departments, making sure that everyone plays by the rules that are set. Simplistically, picture them as the referees that are on the field or court, ensuring a fair game.
3. The Fairness Enforcers (Judicial branch)
This is the system of courts. In case of a dispute or someone breaking the rule, these folks ensure that everyone involved receive a fair shot. They are responsible for implementing and enforcing policies that have been passed into law. Simplistically, they are the ultimate referees – the people that uses multiple cameras and computer algorithms (e.g. Hawk-Eye system used in a game of tennis) to reach a more accurate refereeing decision.
Now, we all know that games aren’t just played at the national level. They can be played at the local or even international level, each with their own team, and adding on more layers to the game.
Similarly with policies. The big bosses (government) aren’t the only one calling the shots. There are other policy players beyond the government. These players include the followings:
1. International organizations
On a global scale, this is like having all the big bosses from different countries come together to make the rules that affect everyone. In games, you have organizations such as FIFA, BWF and ITF that set the common sporting rules that will be applied globally. In the policy game, these organizations are like the United Nations, World Trade Organisation (WTO) and World Health Organization (WHO), and they usually develop international policies that serves basic interests such as human rights and health standards.
2. Local and state governments
Sometimes, national rules need a little customization too. The local and state governments are responsible in making specific rules fit their needs. In a game for example, this could mean female swimmers in a conservative state are allowed to wear modest swimsuit for the competition. In a policy game, this could be that Islamic states are allowed to observe Fridays and Saturdays as their weekend.
3. NGOs, civil societies and industry associations
Simplistically, imagine this group as the influencers or cheerleaders in the game. They aren’t part of the government, but they really care about certain matters such as social issues, the environment or even basic rights. They advocate for what they believe in, represent their community and try to influence the government in its policy making.
4. Think tanks and research institutions
These organizations conduct research and provide data-driven insights that can inform policy decisions. Often times, the government rely on these researches and insights to make informed choices. Simplistically, think of them as the sports analysts in your favourite game.
5. YOU! And the public
Yes, YOU! You’re a player too and your input matters. Often times, the government will hold stakeholder engagements to seek your thoughts about the rules that they are making. This could come in the form of a roadshow, workshops, opinion poll or online submissions. In normal times, you could reach out to your elected representatives to express your opinion on specific policies through emails, letters, phone calls, town hall meetings or even walk-in sessions. And finally, through your vote in local and national elections. Take the opportunity to vote for candidates who align with your policy preferences.
So, put on your jersey and get ready to make a difference. The policy game is happening around you, all the time. Your actions can shape the rules for a better, fairer and more exciting future. Are you ready to play?
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