Understanding the Policymaking Process in Developing Countries

William Ascher is Professor of Government and Economics at Claremont McKenna College, California. He has authored or edited nineteen books on political economy of development, natural resource and environmental policy, political psychology, forecasting methodology, physical infrastructure policy and conflict-sensitive development. Ascher has twice won the Harold D. Lasswell Prize for best article in Policy Sciences and his book Bringing in the Future (2009) won the International Political Science Association's Levine Prize for the best public policy book of 2009. He has worked with the World Bank, USAID, the EPA, directed the Duke Center for International Development, and served as Dean of the Faculty at Claremont McKenna College.

'This is an excellent book. It is an important step forward in global development scholarship because it combines a highly effective 'reality check' on development theory and practice and it offers accessible practical steps and intelligent advice on how to unpack and overcome persistent challenges to development work. It should be required reading for aspirant development practitioners and policymakers.' Craig Hammer, Program Manager, The World Bank

• 1. Challenges to effective development policymaking; 2. The policy process in developing countries really is different; 3. The expert's risk: endorsing ill-fated initiatives; 4. The expert's frustration: rejection of sound knowledge or recommendations; 5. Overcoming the impasses that block sound initiatives; 6. Inconsistent or incomplete enactment of initiatives; 7. Inadequate accommodation for excessive deprivation; 8. Reducing avoidable conflict; 9. Minimizing shortsighted policies; 10. Adapting policy initiatives and institutions; 11. Conclusions.