Reflection: Analyze the Context

One useful framework for understanding complex problems is a PESTLE analysis, which examines factors that shape an issue across six areas:

PESTLE = Political, Economic, Social and Cultural, Legal and International

Political
  • What kind of political system are you working in?
  • What are the current government priorities?
  • How open and responsive is the policy-making system?
  • When are elections or major decision-making moments occurring?
Economic
  • What are the current spending priorities for the government?
  • Are there financial constraints or competing pressures?
  • Is funding available, or will political will need to be generated to unlock it?
Social and Cultural
  • Which communities are most affected?
  • Are there cultural norms or historical factors influencing the issue?
  • How might the proposed solution impact different groups?
Legal and International
  • Who has the authority to act?
  • Are there relevant international commitments, conventions, or obligations? (United Nations accords, frameworks, commitments) 
  • Is this the appropriate time to advance this change?

Using this type of analysis can help advocates see the broader system they are operating within and identify where change is possible.