A novel approach to agricultural policy analysis applied to crop diversification in Bangladesh

Traditional approaches to policy analysis often provide only a partial understanding of the complexities of agricultural policies and their outcomes. This study addresses the important problem of how to evaluate such policies in a manner that captures their effects across historical, political, socio- economics and environmental dimensions and operational challenges. To do so, the paper develops and applies a new analytical framework that combines elements of policy and program analysis with validation through the views of experts and intended beneficiaries. The framework integrates multiple dimensions into a cohesive structure and specifically applied to the case of crop diversification policies in Bangladesh (1971–2023), combining a PRISMA-guided systematic review of 1223 projects, trend analysis of crop production and qualitative insights from 12 key informants. The findings show that the framework uncovers critical gaps in policy design, highlights institutional and operational constraints, and brings out the perspectives of diverse stakeholders, thereby providing a more grounded account of agricultural policy outcomes of Bangladesh. The study contributes by offering a practical and adaptable method that improves transparency, deepens understanding of institutional dynamics, and supports the formulation of context-specific and effective interventions. The insights from Bangladesh demonstrate the broader relevance of the approach for low- and middle-income countries seeking to strengthen agricultural policy and promote sustainable development.