Lessons from S. Korea’s inclusive policy development process
https://arab.news/zp79r
We traveled to South Korea driven by curiosity. Our journey was fueled by countless questions beginning with “what?” and “how?”
As we explored global best practices in cross-sectoral public policy development—ranging from top-down government engagement to bottom-up civil society participation—South Korea consistently stood out in our research. Our team frequently debated how and when we could connect with experts from Korea to deepen our understanding.
This article isn’t an academic research paper. It’s a reflection on our proactive approach at Mukatafa; rather than making assumptions, we chose to traverse the globe to gain firsthand insights.
History of trade associations
To ensure active civil society engagement, the Korean government mandates the establishment of trade associations. However, it doesn’t rely solely on these associations for input. To capture a wide range of perspectives, the government also considers insights from chambers of commerce, NGOs, think tanks, media, and academia.
One notable observation is that the government does not interfere with the size of these associations, provided that the targeted sectors are well-organized and able to present their policy-related insights professionally.
Top-down govt engagement
I have been meeting with various individuals and entities to understand and document how the private sector is involved in policy development.
As I write this from the comfort of my hotel, having spent 10 days in Korea, I reflect on the 16+ meetings I’ve attended. These include discussions with former policymakers, representatives from SK Group (the third largest company in Korea), Hyundai Construction, the Korea International Trade Association, the Korean Finance Association and Think Tank, the Korean-Arab Society, and the Teachers’ Pension.
Their insights have been summarized below:
Pre-policy development:
1. The announcement
When the current administration initiates a specific change, they are legally required to publicly announce the intended amendment, targeting relevant sectors or conglomerates. This phase appears to be the “ideation” stage of the project.
This process allows the government to ensure early and active involvement in the proposed change.
The private sector is informed through multiple channels, including trade associations, NGOs, chambers of commerce, regional and local government representatives, and the media. By utilizing and empowering several channels, the government ensures that a broad segment of the targeted businesses is reached and given an opportunity to participate.
2.Trade associations’ work with industry experts
I initially assumed that because trade associations are strong in Korea, they could independently provide input. I was mistaken.
Despite the significant support and empowerment provided by the government, trade associations go the extra mile to include a diverse range of stakeholders when developing their opinions.
To strengthen the private sector’s perspective on any given policy, trade associations engage with other NGOs, think tanks, economists, academics, and the media. This approach ensures that opinions are well-supported by credible sources, which helps align private sector views with public interest and minimizes the influence of personal agendas.
3. National hearings
Once the designated ministry has announced the proposed changes to relevant stakeholders, they invite them to a national hearing to discuss various perspectives. From my understanding, this process resembles a large, open debate where different stakeholders present their views on whether and why a specific amendment to the policy should be made.
I initially envisioned these hearings as a forum where the sector’s leading experts gathered to resist change. However, instead of rejecting change, participants listen to the value in each other’s opinions.
The public hearings assist legislators in determining what should be included in the policy draft based on the feedback from high-impact and high-interest individuals who were invited.
Let’s take a step back and consider this: all of this occurs before any draft of the new policy amendments is developed. This is still in the ideation phase.
Why is this important? Engaging both top-down and bottom-up stakeholders early in the policy development process leads to stronger endorsement and smoother implementation later on.
4. Next steps
After these steps, the designated government body incorporates the feedback from the pre-drafting phase into the first drafts of the policy.
Throughout my meetings, I repeatedly heard about the flexibility of the process. Policymakers are open to changes even during the drafting phase. Additionally, those who did not participate in the initial phases are encouraged to provide feedback after the national hearing.
I often asked: “Isn’t this a lot of back-and-forth? Aren’t we risking an endless cycle of amendments?” The response was always, “What if there’s an opinion worth hearing?”
My takeaway is that feedback is continuously welcomed, and valid opinions are considered for inclusion. The administration remains open to hearing and possibly integrating new insights.
The people of Korea
It is only fitting to conclude by reflecting on the remarkable professionals and individuals I’ve encountered here. To understand public policy development in Korea, one must first appreciate the fabric of its society—their work ethic, professionalism, and relentless drive for excellence.
The Korean professionals I’ve met have made a significant impression on me. Our Chairman, Prince Waleed, often urges me to return to Saudi Arabia, but here I am, in the back of my hotel, writing this piece and appreciating everyone who made this understanding possible.
What’s in it for us?
I’ve ended each meeting with, “I hope you see us not just as partners but also as friends in Saudi Arabia. We welcome you to our country and look forward to future collaboration.”
This trip may have started as a solo Saudi traveler in Seoul, navigating the heat, shaking hands, and asking what I hope were the right questions. But it’s much more than that, as I get to share these insights with you. I hope you find value in these reflections.
If you’re interested in partnering with us on projects in South Korea, we are just a phone call away.
- Razan Farhan Alaqil is a founding partner of Mukatafa Foundation and recently served as its chief advocacy officer.
