Inclusion in the policy process: An agenda for participation of the marginalized

The past few decades have seen an increase in social exclusion, prompting governments and concerned publics worldwide to call for the creation of a "society for all". Creating space for marginalized individuals and groups to participate in social, economic, and political exchange appears to be elusive despite great strides in technology, medicine, human and civil rights. We contribute to the current debate on "inclusive society" by suggesting that inclusion of vulnerable groups in the policy process may be a viable approach toward an inclusive society. Based on a comprehensive review of the literature, we present an overview of the concept of inclusion, pinpoint groups at risk of exclusion and extent of their exclusion. We then examine merits of inclusion in the policy process. Issues regarding measurement of inclusion are highlighted. The paper concludes with an overview of some direct interventions, e.g., institutional constructs,and indirect interventions, e.g., investment in human capital and asset building, that may be useful in promoting an inclusive society.