Introduction
The twenty-first century has brought with it unprecedented global transformations that directly shape the field of public policy. From rapid technological innovations and climate change to economic volatility and social inequality, public policy challenges in the 21st century are more complex, interconnected, and urgent than ever before.
This program is designed for executives, team leaders, and professionals working in both government and private sectors across the Middle East and North Africa. It addresses the needs of early- and mid-career professionals who seek to strengthen their analytical foundations, as well as senior and middle managers looking to enhance leadership and strategic capacities.
Participants will gain practical insights into the major policy issues of our time and acquire the tools to analyze, evaluate, and respond effectively to these challenges within their institutions. The course emphasizes real-world applications, ensuring that participants can directly apply their learning to improve institutional performance and decision-making.
Course Objectives
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Understand the major public policy challenges shaping the 21st century.
- Analyze the impact of globalization, technology, and demographic shifts on governance.
- Apply policy analysis tools to assess responses to complex societal problems.
- Evaluate alternative strategies and policy responses in different contexts.
- Develop critical thinking to address multi-dimensional challenges.
- Strengthen leadership capacities in designing and implementing solutions.
- Gain insights into international best practices and regional applications.
- Apply lessons learned to real-world policy and organizational challenges.
Course Outlines
Day One: Mapping Global and Regional Public Policy Challenges
- Overview of global megatrends affecting policy in the 21st century.
- Demographic shifts and population growth.
- Climate change and environmental sustainability.
- Economic volatility and global inequality.
- Regional political dynamics in the Middle East and North Africa.
- Group discussion on identifying critical challenges in participants’ sectors.
Day Two: Tools for Analyzing 21st Century Policy Issues
- Introduction to analytical frameworks for complex challenges.
- Using economic, social, and environmental indicators.
- Stakeholder mapping and interest assessment.
- Risk analysis and scenario planning.
- Quantitative vs. qualitative policy tools.
- Practical exercise applying selected tools to a contemporary issue.
Day Three: Evaluating Responses and Policy Alternatives
- Reviewing policy options for complex challenges.
- Criteria for assessing effectiveness, efficiency, and equity.
- Balancing short-term responses with long-term strategies.
- Addressing political and institutional constraints.
- Designing implementable and sustainable solutions.
- Workshop on developing alternative responses to a regional challenge.
Day Four: Case Studies on Contemporary Policy Challenges
- Climate change adaptation and mitigation policies.
- Digital transformation and artificial intelligence governance.
- Social policy responses to inequality and unemployment.
- Public health challenges and pandemic preparedness.
- Regional security and migration dynamics.
- Group presentations analyzing selected case studies.
Day Five: Simulation, Assessment, and Future Outlook
- Comprehensive review of tools and concepts.
- Simulation exercise: designing a policy response to a complex challenge.
- Group work presenting solutions and policy proposals.
- Individual and collective performance evaluation.
- Feedback on analytical, practical, and leadership skills.
- Discussion on emerging trends and the future of public policy.
Why Attend This Course: Wins & Losses!
- Gain a structured understanding of key public policy challenges in the 21st century.
- Acquire analytical tools to evaluate complex issues.
- Strengthen leadership and decision-making capacities.
- Learn from global and regional best practices.
- Engage in simulations and real-world case studies.
- Build a professional network with peers and experts.
- Enhance institutional performance with actionable insights.
- Earn a professional certificate to support career advancement.
Conclusion
The Public Policy Challenges in the 21st Century course provides a comprehensive framework for understanding and addressing the most pressing governance and policy issues of our time. It bridges theory with practice, ensuring that participants are equipped not only with analytical skills but also with the leadership capacities to design effective, sustainable solutions.
By engaging with global trends, regional dynamics, and practical simulations, participants emerge better prepared to navigate the complex realities shaping institutions and societies today. With its balanced approach to theory, case studies, and applied exercises, this program is an invaluable investment for professionals seeking to strengthen their role in shaping public policy in a rapidly evolving world.
