Government policy is the set of laws, regulations and other decisions regarding a certain topic promulgated by a government entity. Policies can be reactive, responding to immediate social movements or crises, or proactive, aimed at preventing future issues from arising. Whether they are positive or negative, the long-term impacts of government policy can influence societal trends and political behavior.
Ultimately, government policy is the avenue through which governmental entities and stakeholders collaborate to tackle critical problems such as advancing shared economic growth, providing equitable access to high-quality health care and education, and limiting climate change. It is a domain of knowledge that focuses on how governments and their advisors select, design, and develop systems to produce social outcomes from the policy outputs that they generate.
In most countries, the policymaking process has evolved since World War II to become more directly permeable to civil society influences. It has also been complicated by a growing array of global interests and domestic concerns that must be weighed and prioritized during policy making.
Many people and groups attempt to shape government policy by supporting political candidates or political parties in elections. Yet, the best way to make a difference is by engaging in the policymaking process itself and using your voice to support and advance public policies that reflect the needs of your community.
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