Home

policiessuch

Policiessuch is a term used in policy studies to describe a pattern in policy drafting in which broad, non-specific language substitutes for concrete commitments. Phrases such as "such measures as are necessary," "such programs as are appropriate," or "as the circumstances require" exemplify the phenomenon. The term highlights how language itself can function as a governance tool, granting discretion to actors while shaping the interpretive space of a policy.

Origins and usage

Policiessuch is a neologism rather than a standard category in established law or policy literature. It appears

Mechanisms

The pattern defers specificity to later determinations, creating discretionary space for officials and agencies to tailor

Examples

Common formulations include: "The state shall implement such measures as are necessary to ensure public safety,"

Implications and criticism

Proponents argue that it supports adaptability and proportional responses. Critics warn it reduces accountability, leads to

See also

Vagueness in law; discretionary budgeting; regulatory language; policy drafting; administrative discretion.

Note

Policiessuch is a coined concept used to discuss drafting patterns and is not a widely standardized

in
discussions
about
legislative
drafting,
administrative
law,
and
governance
in
contexts
where
centralized
authorities
seek
flexibility
to
adapt
to
diverse
jurisdictions,
changing
conditions,
or
evolving
threats.
The
concept
is
often
explored
in
relation
to
multilingual,
federal,
or
decentralized
systems
where
uniform
prescriptions
would
be
impractical.
actions
to
local
budgets,
capacities,
and
circumstances.
It
frequently
accompanies
performance-oriented
or
outcome-focused
policy,
with
success
criteria
left
open-ended.
In
some
cases,
policiessuch
facilitates
rapid
adaptation
but
at
the
cost
of
predictability.
and
"Funds
shall
be
allocated
to
such
programs
as
the
department
deems
appropriate."
Such
language
can
appear
in
statutes,
regulatory
orders,
or
funding
appropriations.
uneven
application,
and
can
complicate
judicial
review
due
to
vagueness.
term
in
formal
literature.