1. Policy briefs
What are they?
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2. 2 types of policy brief Advocacy brief Objective brief
Argues for choosing a particular course of action
Objective brief
Gives balanced information for policy maker to make up her mind
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3. Examples of policy briefs
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4. Purpose
Convince the reader that the problem must be addressed urgently
Provide information about alternatives
Provide evidence to support one alternative
Stimulate reader to make a decision
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5. Policy briefs Based on firm evidence
Not just one or two experiments
Draw evidence from various sources
Ideally not just from your organization
Relate to the big picture
Show how a policy change will solve a problem
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6. Characteristics of a policy brief 1
Focused on achieving purpose
Language, design, argument, evidence…
Professional
Not academic
Focus on what research findings mean, not how the research was done
Based on evidence
Rational argument
Based on clear evidence
Show consequences of recommended action
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7. Characteristics of a policy brief 2
Limited
Focus on a particular problem or issue
Succinct
Short and sweet
2 pages (700 words) to 8 pages (3000 words max)
Easy to understand
Clear, simple language
No jargon
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8. Characteristics of a policy brief 3
Accessible
Clear headings
Short paragraphs
Promotional
Catches the eye
Attractive design
Practical
Based on what is actually happening
Realistic, feasible recommendations
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9. Resources This presentation is based on
Young, E. and L. Quinn. Undated. The policy brief.
Other useful sources
Jones, N., and C. Walsh Policy briefs as a communication tool for development research. ODI Background Note. Overseas Development Institute, London.
Preparing a policy issue brief.
FAO Food security information for action. Reporting formats for food security.
Paul Mundy