Beleidskunde

Beleidskunde, in English usually translated as public policy studies, is an interdisciplinary field that examines how public policies are formulated, implemented and evaluated. It draws on political science, public administration, sociology, economics and law to understand decision making in governments and the effects of policy choices on society.

The central focus is the policy process, often described through a policy cycle encompassing agenda setting, policy formulation, decision making, implementation and evaluation. Researchers analyze the roles of actors (ministers, agencies, legislators, interest groups, experts and citizens), institutions, and networks, as well as the instruments governments deploy—regulation, subsidies, public provision of services and public-private partnerships.

Methodologically, Beleidskunde uses case studies, comparative analysis, statistical evaluation and normative assessment. Theoretical approaches include rational choice and incrementalism, but also constructivist, governance and network perspectives. Policy analysis frameworks, evaluation designs, and tools such as theory of change and logical frameworks are commonly applied to study policy effectiveness, equity and efficiency.

Beleidskunde is taught at universities in Dutch-speaking areas as part of political science, public administration or governance programs. It maintains close ties to related disciplines such as law and economics and serves both academic research and public sector practice, helping design, implement, assess and reform public policies.