A review of ambiguity, timing, and the multiple-streams policy analysis framework

Abstract

An important question that needs to be traced in research in the area of policy processes is why some issues are successfully added to the policy agenda while others may "fail". It is necessary to explore what influences policy makers to focus on certain issues. Kingdon's multiple streams framework of analysis provides valuable insights. Based on an analysis of the context and foundational elements of the multiple streams framework, this paper reviews the framework on the basis of an overview of the relevant theories, and responds to the problems of the theoretical model in terms of the independence of the three streams, the neglect of institutional, economic and cultural factors, and the lack of predictability of reality.