Analyzing policy processes as complex systems: The case of Mesoamerican Sustainable Development Initiative.Analyzing policy processes as complex systems: Mesoamerican Sustainable Development Initiative.

Abstract

This paper presents a research methodology for analyzing policy processes that are defined at the global level but implemented locally. The interrelations between these two levels pose great conceptual challenges in explaining the changes, transformations and continuations occurring in this complex process based on empirical information. Understanding the policy process as a complex system, this paper proposes analyzing macro, meso and micro levels as subsystems of the total process, identifying the interrelations between policy action, actors and discourses. The paper takes the example of the Mesoamerican Sustainable Development Initiative (MSDI) of the Puebla Panama Plan (PPP), a regional integration plan for a new ‘Mesoamerica’ that originally included the seven Central American countries and the southern states of Mexico.

Developing Grounded Theory Systematic Approach for Public Policy Researches

“…To simplify the explanation of interrelations between policy subsystem elements, most analysts take the macro, meso, and micro levels as subsystems within the overall policy system (Almaguer-Kalixto et al, 2014). Different combinations of the relationships between the three elements of actors, institutions, and ideas make distinctive ways of policymaking, which are known as policy styles, modes, or regimes (Howlett et al, 2009).…”

“…Also, the complexity and vagueness of the dynamic relationships in policy subsystems are rising because of the rising number of interest groups in policymaking, widening the scope and increasing the specialization of public policies (Jordan, 1990b). Some of the most important categorizations of policy subsystem elements are:• Walker (2000): Policymaking process; system domain for policies; external factors; outcomes of interest.• Weible (2008): Culture; institutions and rules; social, economic and environmental conditions; actors’ relationships; social constructions; power and authority.• Milward and Wamsley (1985): Interest groups; legislative committees; executive branch agencies.• Freeman (1955): Bureaucracy; congressional committees; interested segments of the public.• Almaguer-Kalixto et al (2014): Policy actions; actors; discourses.…”