Beyond the (pre)concept and discourse

Proposal for assessment of public policies based on sustainability

Abstract

The paper starts from the assumption that it is necessary to deepen the knowledge about the founding postulates of sustainable development in order to effectively incorporate its dimensions into the process of construction and evaluation of public policies. The objective was to suggest an evaluative path for public policies that is based on the premises of sustainability. It is not a matter of evaluating policies aimed at promoting sustainable development, but evaluating public policy from the perspective of sustainability. We call the proposal of Avaliação Baseada em Sustentabilidade (ABS) - Assessment Based on Sustainability (ABS), in English. This work is the result of an exploratory research, based on bibliographic studies and on the author's experience as a teacher and researcher. ABS proposes an institutionalized evaluative path, essentially adaptable, interdisciplinary, integrative, transversal, resistant to the political pressures of power groups, and legitimized by wide social participation. It must result from an orchestration between the actors involved, overcoming conflicts over the common good, and must determine whether public policy promotes: inter and intragenerational solidarity; overcoming inequality in its various manifestations; minimization of damages to nature, seeking eco-efficiency based on the precautionary and prevention principles; participatory democracy and education for peace and sustainability. In addition, ABS seeks to anchor itself on the pillars proposed by Agenda 2030, present in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): people, planet, equitable prosperity, peace and partnership.