Publication: The Political Economy of Policy Reform : Issues and Implications for Policy Dialogue and Development Operations
Date
2008-11
ISSN
Published
2008-11
Author(s)
World Bank
Abstract
This study addresses the political
economy of sector reforms. Sustainable reform processes
which improve equity, efficiency and effectiveness in key
economic and social sectors are often important elements of
national poverty reduction strategies in low- and
middle-income countries. For international development
agencies wishing to engage in these processes, understanding
the significance of power relations within the sector,
vested interests, and the links to national political
processes can be critical to being an effective actor in
policy dialogue. This study explores these issues through
the analysis of case studies of World Bank engagement in two
areas: agricultural liberalization, and public-private
partnerships in water supply and sanitation. The objectives
of the study are twofold: (a) to analyze the political
economy of reform by looking at stakeholder interests,
incentives, institutions, risks, opportunities, and
processes from a social analysis perspective; and (b) to
illustrate 'what works, why and how' for a better
understanding and management of political economy issues in
the design and implementation of reforms and development
operations. The study draws on operational experiences to
inductively develop a conceptual framework that offers an
innovative way to look at the political economy of policy
reforms. The study presents a solid basis for a future
program of work which can address these issues.
Citation
“World Bank. 2008. The Political Economy of Policy Reform : Issues and Implications for Policy Dialogue and Development Operations. © Washington, DC. http://openknowledge.worldbank.org/entities/publication/6212af4c-3562-50fb-8153-4b1b846e87c7 License: CC BY 3.0 IGO.”