A political
transformation was rooted in reestablishment of political and civil rights
and freedoms and reconstruction of democratic institutions by free elections.
Old political structures changed, new ones emerged. The political transformation
was accompanied by an economic one - a set of legal and economic measures
aimed at introducing market economy which was based on two pillars: liberalization
and privatization. Generally the role of the state in economy shrinked.
However, initial consensus on reform policy soon melted away once it entered
into specific areas of economy (banking, telecommunications, energy) or
public sectors (housing, healthcare, education, environment).
The process of political and economic transformation in Central European countries has been already thoroughly studied. An interaction between political and economic aspects, a process of policy formulation based on proper analysis and representation of different interests in public sphere is not so well described. A role of intermediary structures as the carriers and channels of the free, transparent public debate is one of the features of the civil society. What are the main obstacles in creating such mechanisms and institutions in Central European countries ?
A political and economic transformation led to far-reaching changes in a society. New interests became formulated and organized. Interests groups learned how to influence policy and decision making. The critical point is that some of them do not pursue their interests in an open, transparent way.
A comparison of institutional forms and mechanisms of political analysis and formulation in Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland and Slovakia shows a different landscape. What are main reasons why policy analysis and advice is done in a different manner in Visegrad countries ? What are the main differences compared to U.S. or other European states ? The project´s aim is to search for a theoretical and practical answer to these questions.
In the Czech Republic
low standards in financing of political parties in 90´s allowed the
interest groups to exert direct political influence without a public debate
in a less transparent way. Series of political scandals, public protests
and petitions 1997-2000 brought the problem of policy making to the forefront
of the political debate. In 1999, social democratic government provided
financial resources for academic center for social and economic strategy
to be established and provide an alternative expertise. Obviously, however
well intended, it is far from being an independent body. Existing
non-governmental institutions neither produce a visible impact on policy
making nor function as a real think tanks. Lack of funding seems to be
only part of the problem.
The situation in Slovakia is slightly different. NGO sector is much more active in public policy area than in Czech Republic. Opposition against the authoritative policies of Prime Minister Meciar brought together a critical mass of experts who could operate only in non-governmental sector (e.g. Institute for Public Affairs).
Situation in Hungary and Poland is also different because of recent history, therefore it seems to be reasonable to include them into this project as a point of reference . Focus will obviously remain on non-governmental activities.
to analyse existing formal and informal networks in policy making process in Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland and Slovak Republic with special focus on their:
As to different sorts of institutions, main categories to be discerned :
The project has 2 major parts,
the first one theoretical - see objetives No. 1-3, the second one more
practical - see objectives No. 4-5
Ad 1-3 Analytical part of the project (analysis, assessment, comparative research)
The first phase of the analytical part of the project will consist of collection of data and information plus selection of those to be interviewed
The second phase would focus on "field work" - interviews (besides perspective from capitals a regional aspect is also desirable: e.g. Czech Republic - Brno, Poland - Krakow, etc.). Different policy players (analysts, journalists, politicians, etc) will be asked about their opinion an experience concerning usefulness, impact, quality of available policy advice and expertise. Scope of the "field research" depends on available funds.
The third phase would be final analysis. Special attention will be given to financing of policy analysis with regard to domestic and foreign resorces from private, public, non-profit resources.
Ad 4-5 Practical part of
the project (resumé, recommendations, suggestions).
The first phase of the practical part of the project means to recommend concrete steps how to establish non-profit public policy institution: where to get financial and human resources, how to use existing institutions, how to effectively and flexibly organize and manage available resources, how to address public and lobby policy-makers, etc. ?Back to the Contents
The second phase would be to present above mentioned suggestions - to organize a round-table discussion with potential actors and expore the usefulness of "Think Tank Guide" and test the viability of suggested ideas.
Suggested project has analytical/theoretical
and practical/operational level. Even identification of present weaknesses
and future potentials would be useful. However it would be highly desirable
to assist in realization of some practical conclusions. That would mean
to plant seeds for future. Stronger capabilities in policy analysis will
make Central European states more competitive in European political processes.
J. Schneider, Prague, 10 February
2002