Policy analysis refers to the systematic examination of public policies to understand their objectives, effects, costs, benefits, feasibility and possible alternatives. It is an important instrument in policy planning and implementation because governments and public institutions operate in conditions of limited resources, competing interests and complex social problems. Policy analysis provides decision-makers with reliable information and a rational basis for selecting suitable courses of action. It also helps identify conflicts among different stakeholders and supports the development of strategies for resolving them. In decision-making, policy analysis begins with identifying and defining the problem that requires government intervention. A clearly defined problem helps decision-makers understand its causes, affected groups and likely consequences if no action is taken. The next step is to establish policy objectives and identify alternative solutions. Each alternative can then be assessed in terms of effectiveness, efficiency, costs, benefits, administrative feasibility, political acceptability and social consequences.