Analyzing Policy Formulation and Implementation: The Case of Ethiopian National Youth Policy

Abstract

This paper set out to analyze policy formulation and implementation process of Ethiopian National Youth policy. To this end, the study was conducted on both national and Central Gondar zonal levels. A qualitative approach was employed to collect and analyze the data needed to address the aforementioned objectives. Accordingly, the study has employed document analysis to analyze policy formulation process. In addition, to analyze policy implementation process at zonal level, key informant interviews were held with two officers working at Central Gondar zonal office. Furthermore, the study has employed two different types of analytical framework to address central issues of the study. On the one hand, Value Critical Policy Analysis Framework was employed to analyze the policy formulation process. On the other hand, Copeland and Wexler (1995) Implementation Analysis Framework was employed to analyse the policy implementation process.The study began by analyzing the policy formulation process on the basis of the six policy elements of value critical analysis framework. The National Youth Policy of Ethiopia is formulated in a professional manner. The study shows some hitch in the process of policy formulation such as; while stating vision and goal of the policy, the policy document fails to include reference of time parameter as to when to achieve the stated goal of the policy. In addition, the study found the policy document ignoring to discuss the importance and inclusion of youth participation in decision making process of the policy implementation. Besides, considering financing methods the study ravels that nothing is mentioned in the policy document about the source of funding to carry out the policy functions.The policy implementation analysis was conducted on the basis of Copeland and Wexler (1995) Implementation Analysis Framework. The policy implementation analysis focuses on themes such as enabling legislation and regulations, organizational structure, organizational process, and program performance.

Keywords: Ethiopian Youth Policy, Central Gondar, Policy Formulation, and Policy Implementation.

DOI: 10.7176/RHSS/11-3-01

Publication date: February 28^th 2021