Public policy is a law (or set of laws) or decisions that are usually enacted by a government in response to an issue that affects the general public. Existing policies may become inadequate as the conditions of a nation or the needs of its people change.
Many issues may be addressed through public policy such as international relations, health care, or crime. Public policy can be made in a matter of weeks, months, or years depending upon the situation.
In many places across the world, issues related to overpopulation led to the creation of public policy. India and China are the two most populated countries in the world. Together, these countries account for more than one third of the world’s population; however, each has created different policies to control population growth in their respective countries.
India: Family Planning Policy |
China: One Child Policy |
By the 1950s, India’s population had grown to more than 500 million people. In response to the rapid growth, the government launched the following family planning programs:
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China acted forcefully to reduce the rate of growth in its country. In 1980, China adopted the One Child Policy. The following One Child Policy rules are enforced by the State Family Planning Commission:
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Answer the following questions in your notes.
What are the similarities in these two public policies?
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Both policies are aimed at controlling population growth. Both policies also provide financial assistance in an effort to limit reproduction. They both provide contraception to citizens.
What are the main differences in these two public policies?
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While both policies provide similar assistance and services, China mandates a limit on the number of children that couples can have.
There are several types of public policies that address a variety of issues that impact the United States and the global community. According to the U.S. Department of State, the issues listed below are a few that the U.S. government addresses through public policy. Click on the name of each policy to learn more.
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The Bali Action Plan represents an important step in this global effort by recognizing that all countries that contribute to atmospheric emissions must undertake measurable, reportable, and verifiable mitigation actions in order to cut greenhouse gas emissions. The world community must work collaboratively to slow, stop, and reverse greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in a way that promotes sustainable economic growth, increases energy security, and helps nations deliver greater prosperity for their people. As we move from Bali to Poznan to Copenhagen, the United States will continue to engage constructively to contribute to an agreed outcome on a post-2012 arrangement that is both environmentally effective and economically sustainable. Source: U.S. Department of State
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This policy promotes open, interoperable, secure, and reliable information and communications infrastructure that supports international trade and commerce, strengthens international security, and fosters free expression and innovation. This policy created the Office of the Coordinator for Cyber Issue whose responsibilities include :
Source: U.S. Department of State
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The Bali Action Plan addresses climate change, and the U.S. International Strategy for Cyberspace addresses issues surrounding the global use of cyberspace. Both issues impact many people, thus the policies are created to protect many people. These are just two of many issues that the U.S. government addresses through public policy.
Check out the following link to learn about more public policies: U.S. Department of State.