Vertiefung Politische Theorie

Description: Policy implementation is the process that turns policies into practice. Yet, implementing policies is neither an apolitical nor a mechanistic task. Rather, there are several interventions possible that can render even the most ambitious policy largely ineffective. This seminar starts with the question how to assess implementation performance in different context. Thereafter, it deals with the question which aspects determine implementation success or failure. These aspects range from, for instance, the capacities of states authorities to the nature of the target group. The seminar concludes with presenting and evaluating several empirical case studies from the German and international context.

Learning Objectives: Students will explore the significance of policy implementation and the obstacles that can impede its success. They will learn to distinguish between top-down and bottom-up approaches in policy implementation research and examine the determinants of (effective) policy implementation. The course will underscore the importance of instrument choice and policy coordination, as well as the potential challenges with discretion and implementing authorities' actions. Furthermore, students will gain insight into the ramifications of new policies without appropriate administrative capacities. In the EU context, students will explore policy and legal misfit, veto points, and implementation gaps. Finally, special attention will be given to the exceptional challenges of policy implementation in times of crisis. In summary, this course is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies of policy implementation. By the end of the course, students should be able to analyze and understand the implementation success or failure of public policies.