Understanding the set-up of policy advisory systems

This chapter presents the institutional set-up for policy advisory systems at arm’s length of government. These systems are made up of permanent or ad hoc advisory bodies that differ in structure. Permanent bodies operate as committees/councils or as research institutes, while ad hoc bodies come in various shapes. They can also differ in their position towards government. Bodies at arm’s length are either mandated with full managerial/legal autonomy or are attached to ministries. Advisory bodies can also have a broad or a specific focus. Finally, advisory bodies can be classified by function, ranging from providing evidence and evaluations to ensuring strategic foresight.