Where our country is going

PUBLIC POLICY

Public policyWhat is public policy?

The things our country focuses on.These decisions are made by the

government.Will the government focus on

education/war/health care/jobs? What the government wants us to do as a country is our public policy.

PUBLIC POLICYHow the media influences public policy

Focusing public attention on selected issuesHolding government officials accountableOffering a forum to allow for different views

to be presented.The government can also use the media to

communicate with the public.

PUBLIC POLICYWays Individuals Influence public policy

Participate in politicsVotingCampaigningRunning for office

Express opinionsWrite lettersDemonstrateLobby

Join interest groups

PUBLIC POLICYWays Interest groups influence public

policyIdentify issuesDonate money to a campaignLobby government officials

PUBLIC POLICYHow the world influences public policySometimes international issues force local

governments to take action when they normally wouldn’t:Public health concerns if there is a pandemicPublic safety if there is an act of terrorismEconomic policies with an emerging global

economyPolicies to protect the environment