Kingdon's Multiple Streams Framework

Kingdon's Multiple Streams Framework explains how policy changes happen through three interconnected "streams": problems, policies, and politics. The problem stream concerns issues that catch public and policymakers’ attention. The policy stream involves potential solutions developed by experts and specialists. The politics stream includes political factors like public opinion, elections, and partisan dynamics. When these streams align—often triggered by a focusing event or timing—a "policy window" opens, allowing decision-makers to pursue changes. This framework shows that policy change is often the result of the convergence of these separate streams rather than deliberate planning alone.