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"Invisible" stakeholders in policy analysis

Publication at Faculty of Social Sciences |
2014

Abstract

The aim of this article is to establish both theoretical and methodological support for the formulation of so-called “invisible” stakeholders’ attitudes. The term is introduced in order to reflect the way marginalised stakeholders are treated in policy analysis – it means that these stakeholders are neglected and, further, rendered invisible.

First, the term is defined and various theoretical and methodological approaches are described, and then stress is placed on empirical data and the process of the formulation of “invisible” stakeholders’ needs and attitudes. Data from the author’s previous research on lone mothers in the Czech Republic are reflected upon and the specifics of the formulation (and its risks) are depicted in order to give some hints for practical application.

The findings prove that the concept of the “invisible” stakeholder has great potential to enrich policy analysis and public policy making, and to empower “invisible” stakeholders.