The role of a policy brief in policy formulation and review: bringing evidence to bear

Abstract

Applying scientific evidence in policy making is a complex, yet crucial issue that policy makers need to embrace at all times. Evidence-based policy making helps in filling the gap between academic research and practice. A policy brief is perceived in this review paper as a neutral synopsis that makes research findings easily digestible with a sole purpose to succinctly evaluate policy options regarding a specific issue, for a policy-maker audience. Unlike the general recommendations from findings of an academic research, a policy brief is a ‘professional’ concise report that ensures the impact of research in addressing problems and challenges facing society. Using document analysis as a methodological approach, this review paper discusses the importance of a policy brief in facilitating policy formulation and review. In addition, it critically examines, what a persuasive policy brief entails, and what steps to consider in de-signing actionable policy brief. The paper also provides a critical analysis of the current status-quo in terms of the development and use of policy briefs in policy formulation in Namibia.