Understanding Political Landscape Copy

John Kingdon’s Multiple Streams Framework​

John Kingdon’s Multiple Streams Framework is a widely used model in the field of policy analysis and advocacy. It offers insights into how policy changes occur by focusing on the convergence of three separate streams: the problem stream, the policy stream, and the political stream. These streams must align for a policy change to take place. Here’s an overview of each stream:​

• Problem Stream: This stream represents the issues, challenges, and concerns that policymakers and the public perceive as requiring attention. Problems might include social issues, economic challenges, public health concerns, and more. These problems often gain attention through media coverage, crises, research findings, or advocacy efforts. Problems become part of the agenda when they are recognized as pressing and deserving of policy attention.​
• Policy Stream: The policy stream involves the development of potential solutions to the problems identified in the problem stream. This stream includes policy ideas, proposals, and recommendations put forth by experts, think tanks, interest groups, and researchers. These policy solutions are often refined and developed over time. They may be brought to policymakers’ attention through reports, studies, and advocacy efforts.​
• Political Stream: The political stream relates to the political environment, including the power dynamics, political climate, and windows of opportunity for policy change. Factors in the political stream might include changes in leadership, shifts in public opinion, and political events. When the political stream is favourable, policymakers are more likely to consider and adopt policy solutions.​

Sources: Common’s Library