The impact of political context upon the health policy process in Pakistan

Abstract

Analysis of the political context is important for the understanding of a health policy and its success, because contextual factors may significantly influence the health policy process and health. This article describes how the political context in Pakistan influences the health policy process. We used qualitative research methods based on document analysis and interviews of relevant actors in analysing the impact of the political context on the health policy process. Document analysis included policy documents and official reports of the health ministries, health-related departments and international agencies. Interviewees included relevant actors involved in the health policy process at local, provincial, national and international levels. Pakistan has experienced unbalanced power structures and frequent changes in government, which has disturbed health resources and has resulted in a centralized health system that hinders wider participation and disrupts health policy-making, planning and implementation. It is concluded that the political context has had a negative influence on the health policy process in Pakistan.