New Book Explores Policy Entrepreneurship and Crisis Management
Authors Evangelia Petridou, Jörgen Sparf, Nikolaos Zahariadis, and Thomas Birkland presented their new book "Policy Entrepreneurs, Crises, and Policy Change" with an exciting panel discussion during last week's book launch event.
The book delves into the topic of policy entrepreneurship and crisis management and is now available for purchase, but it is also accessible Open Access via Cambridge Core. It offers unique insights into how policy entrepreneurs navigate and influence governance during various types of crises.
The authors, all prominent researchers, have compiled their extensive experiences and research in this book. Jörgen researches crisis management, and public policy with a strong interest in how local authorities handle risks and crises, as well as the role of trust in these processes. Evangelia holds a PhD in political science, and her research focuses on political entrepreneurship and its impact on public policy at local, regional, and national levels. The book is an example of the research output of the policy group in the discipline of political science in collaboration with sociology.
During the panel discussion, the authors discussed how policy entrepreneurs play a crucial role in driving changes during both fast-burning and creeping crises. They emphasized the importance of understanding the process of shared meaning and how this is created and maintained. The panel also highlighted the need for more research on democracy and policy entrepreneurship, particularly how unelected individuals and corporate actors influence policy decisions.
About the Book
During turbulent times, policy entrepreneurs emerge as central actors, and this book examines how policy entrepreneurs act during crises by analyzing six case studies—three fast-burning and three creeping crises. The book proposes strategies for policy entrepreneurs during crises and provides a framework for understanding the outcomes based on the type of crisis. It also suggests further research on policy entrepreneurs and crises, including implications for crisis managers.