motionsplan

Motionplan, or motionsplan in Dutch, is a term used in deliberative bodies to refer to a structured plan for submitting, organizing, and advocating motions within a council or assembly. It serves as a planning instrument to align proposed motions with a party’s program or a government's policy priorities, and to ensure transparent debate and effective decision-making.

Typically, a motionsplan includes the list of proposed motions, the objectives of each motion, the justification and anticipated impact, the responsible sponsor, a timeline tied to meetings, and a strategy for communication and follow-up. It may also specify the required votes, possible amendments, and evaluation criteria for policy outcomes.

Development and use: In many municipalities and organizations, party groups or policy units prepare a motionsplan ahead of a council term or major agenda cycle. The plan is updated as priorities shift and new information becomes available. Motions included in the plan may be submitted as formal moties during council sessions; they can request resources, changes in regulations, or new policy initiatives. The success of motions depends on parliamentary procedure, coalition dynamics, and public support.

Relation to other concepts: The motionsplan is related to the broader policy program and agenda setting. It complements the annual or multi-year budget and the strategic plan, and can influence the content of committee inquiries, hearings, and public consultations. The term is primarily used in Dutch-speaking contexts, but similar instruments exist in other parliamentary systems under different names. Related topics include motie (motion), agenda planning, policy program, and the legislative process.