report – policy debate in civil society

Description

You are to write a report comparing two different policy approaches to a contemporary social issue. Format suggestions are provided in the Report Scaffold. Examples of policy approaches to consider:
• Harm minimisation versus abstinence in drug policy
• Adoption versus intensive family support programs

The report should include:
• A brief overview of the social problem.
• Some examples of how this approach has been described and framed in Australian media discussions.
• For each side of the debate (policy approach) provide: • A broad overview of the policy approach, the key theory of government and the social values or philosophies that underpin the approach.
• An assessment of the evidence for the effectiveness of the policy, including information from formal evaluations if available
• A critique of the human rights implications of this policy approach and whether the policy or elements of the policy could be considered oppressive.
• In what circumstances could this policy approach be considered an appropriate response to an issue.
• In what circumstances could this policy approach be an inappropriate response to an issue.
• Consider each policy approach and describe which approach you broadly consider to be the most helpful in addressing the key social issue. Discuss how you would advocate for this including how you would balance the competing claims offered in the other approach. Support your position with reference to human rights legislation, the AASW code of ethics and/or advocacy campaigns of civil society organisations.
• Outline at least two strategies you could use to advance your claim.

ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:
2. Key issue being examined is outlined including information on population groups and government departments that address this.
3. Assertions are supported with relevant academic sources, government reports, and other relevant references.
4. Policy positions are reported and analysed.
5. Position taken is argued for logically and consistently.

6. Critical reflection as to how human rights are addressed in these policy positions and whether position is oppressive.