Assessing the empirical impact of policy capacity on climate change policy work in Pakistan

Abstract The study examines the impact of policy capacity at the individual level on policy work in Pakistan. The purposive sample technique collects data from 123 policy professionals associated with the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination and its attached departments at the national and sub‐national levels. The partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS‐SEM) method is used to analyse the data. The findings show that analytical policy capacity significantly and positively impacts policy work while operational capacity and political capacity do not influence policy work. The paper canvasses recommendations including strengthening the in‐house capacity of government organisations through capacity‐building and professional development training programs. Points for practitioners Strengthening the analytical skills of policy professionals through targeted, long‐term training programs at the federal and provincial levels is critical for improving climate change policy outcomes in Pakistan. The limited impact of operational and political capacities indicates the need for organisational reforms. Increasing the autonomy of policy professionals, allowing them more decision‐making flexibility, and reducing administrative burdens can enable more effective policy work, especially in addressing complex issues like climate change. To overcome the operational capacity challenges, policymakers should focus on improving management skills and technical expertise through specialised training.