Science, Politics, Beliefs, and Animal and Food System Policy
Local Policy-Making for Animal Health and Food Systems: Interactions with National and Global Policies
St. Paul, Minnesota, October 19-21, 2009
Theme
Global animal health: international and interstate animal movement
Faculty
Katey Pelican, William Sischo, and Will Hueston
Learning objectives
- Decipher the policy-making process related to food safety, trade, animal health, and public health. (For example, what is the legal authority of local governments: state, provincial, canton, etc.?)
- Comprehend the impact that intergovernmental agencies, governmental agencies (national, state, and local), non-governmental agencies, and professional and trade organizations have on local decisions to formulate policy.
- Distinguish various policy strategies: executive directives, political priorities, legislative and executive strategic planning and operational goal-setting, budget allocation, and dispute resolution.
- Differentiate among scientific findings, personal and organizational beliefs, and political agendas as policy is implemented.
As a result of this course, participants will be able to:
- Explain the legal authorities of a State
- Distinguish various strategies that groups use to inform and influence policy.
- Demonstrate a role that the private sector has in enhancing global food safety, animal health, and public health systems.
- Synthesize a policy perspective utilizing a complex knowledge base that includes scientific findings, beliefs, and politics.
- Present a cogent argument that informs policy that would be understood across a diverse audience.
Policy and leadership skill building
- Value different perspectives on policy and policy-making in different disciplines, cultures and contexts. (Broaden exposure through experiences.)
- Enhance communication skills for professionals working at the convergence of animal health, public health, and the environment.
- Expand personal networks with leaders in food safety, public health, and agricultural health.
Learning strategies
- Background readings
- Directed discussions and debate around a current issue
- Experiential learning through interactions with key officials
- Group task assignments
- Develop and deliver a presentation to inform and persuade