From Vision To Reality: Ex Post Evaluation of Legislation

Three core issues are discussed in this article on ex post evaluation of legislation. Each of these issues is in first instance approached from a theoretical perspective and is further elaborated and illustrated by insights derived from empirical research and concrete experiences by public administrations. First, the need for evaluation is demonstrated. The answer to the question why legislative evaluation is important touches upon the very basics of contemporary lawmaking. The second focus is on the characteristics, methods and techniques of evaluation. Some major features of evaluation with regard to definition, types, purposes, criteria and context are highlighted. A third point of interest is the institutionalization of evaluation. What can be said about the organizational context? Special attention is paid to the diverging experiences in Belgium and Flanders with regard to the institutionalization of evaluation. The article is rounded off with concluding comments that might serve as a starting point for further discussion.