Policygrunnlag

Policygrunnlag is the information, analysis, and criteria that form the basis for a policy proposal or decision. It explains why a policy is needed, what problem it addresses, and what outcomes are sought, and it supports evidence-based decision making and accountability in the policy process.

A robust policygrunnlag typically includes: description of the problem and its context; clearly stated objectives and scope; a set of policy options and the criteria for comparing them; relevant evidence from data, research, and case studies; assessments of costs and benefits, distributional effects, and feasibility; risk and uncertainty analysis; legal, regulatory, and ethical considerations; implementation plans; and a plan for monitoring and evaluation.

In practice, policygrunnlag is produced by public authorities during policy development, often involving research, impact assessments, and stakeholder input. It serves as input for decision makers in government and parliament and helps justify the chosen option while guiding follow-up monitoring.

Policygrunnlag is relevant across domains such as climate policy, housing and urban development, health and social policy, and economic policy. In many systems it is tied to regulatory impact assessments or similar evaluation requirements, emphasizing a defensible, evidence-based rationale.

Common challenges include incomplete data, methodological disagreements, and time pressure. Best practices include documenting assumptions and data sources, ensuring transparency, involving stakeholders, presenting alternatives, and planning for regular updates as new information becomes available.