Based on this experience, an indicative typology of Roadmaps can be drawn. Nevertheless, in reality most Roadmaps will look more like a mix of these prototypes.
It represents a basic consensus on principles vis- à-vis a policy area or broad policy objective.
Characteristics: non- binding; no clearly defined timeframe; no provisions for implementation; serves to set the agenda.
It spells out a commitment by the stakeholders to take action on clearly defined objectives.
Characteristics: binding; may include a timeframe; includes general provisions for implementation; serves to set the agenda.
It includes a timeframe and concrete tasks for a clearly defined target group.
Characteristics: binding; detailed provisions for implementation; serves to formulate policy options.
• Declaration of intent
It represents a basic consensus on principles vis- à-vis a policy area or broad policy objective.
Characteristics: non- binding; no clearly defined timeframe; no provisions for implementation; serves to set the agenda.
• Framework agreement
It spells out a commitment by the stakeholders to take action on clearly defined objectives.
Characteristics: binding; may include a timeframe; includes general provisions for implementation; serves to set the agenda.
• Action plan
It includes a timeframe and concrete tasks for a clearly defined target group.
Characteristics: binding; detailed provisions for implementation; serves to formulate policy options.
Last but not least, a rather important issue to keep in mind when issuing policy proposals is their political feasibility, which basically means putting oneself in the decision makers’ shoes in order to understand their reality and particular constraints that may prevent them from carrying on the desired reforms. However, hosting structures should avoid adopting broad brush assumptions about the willingness of political actors to undertake some reforms.
The purpose of the dialogue is precisely to unlock the black box of “political will”, which all-too-often serves an excuse to preserve the status quo, by pushing decision makers to engage into a rational debate where their arguments can be met with counterarguments and the alleged limitations and shortages can be compensated through collaboration and joint action.
↪ At the end of the day, this is what the Roadmap is all about: a working document that reflects the shared vision of the stakeholders and that outlines the different actions that they commit to undertake in order to implement it.