Investigating How Public Policy Is Made
Every law, policy, or government decision begins with a problem. But turning an idea into legislation is rarely simple. Different groups compete for influence, politicians debate possible solutions, experts provide evidence, and governments must weigh competing priorities.
Choose a local, provincial, territorial, or federal policy or piece of legislation that interests you. Your goal is to investigate how it came to exist, who influenced it, and whether it achieved what it set out to do.
Guiding Questions
Understanding the Issue
- What policy or piece of legislation did you choose?
- What problem was it intended to solve?
- Why did this issue become important when it did?
Following the Decision-Making Process
- Approximately how long did it take for the policy to move from idea to implementation?
- Who first proposed or championed the policy? Was it a politician, government department, advocacy group, business, Indigenous nation, or another stakeholder?
- What events, public campaigns, research, or public pressure helped move the issue onto the government’s agenda?
- Who were the major stakeholders? What did each group hope to gain or protect?
- Were these stakeholders consulted? Why or why not?
Evaluating the Outcome
- Did political parties generally support or oppose the policy? What were their reasons?
- Did everyone agree with the final decision? Who supported it, and who remained opposed?
- Why do you think the policy was ultimately approved (or rejected, if applicable)?
- Has the policy been successful in addressing the original problem? Explain using evidence.
- Is it considered a long-term solution, or does the issue still require additional action?
Reflect
Public policy is rarely perfect. Governments often balance competing interests, limited resources, and political realities.
What does your example teach you about how governments make decisions? What factors seem to matter most when a policy becomes law?
Resources:
Policies, regulations and laws by department or agency (federal)