Policy Analysis of the European Community Food and Agriculture Model

Conducting a "policy analysis" of a model is not a well defined task. In this case it refers to an approach whereby a number of policy instruments are selected and their simulation by the model in question evaluated. \n \nThis paper is composed of three parts. The first section describes the European Community (EC) model's purpose and structure. This description is presented in order to clarify the level of detail required by the model. The second section contains an overview of EC agricultural problems and objectives, leading into a determination of relevant policy instruments. In the third part EC model simulation of these policy instruments is analyzed. \n \nComments and criticisms fall into three categories. The first refers to the model description of the policy instruments. As several variables representing relevant policy instruments are not included in the model, suggestions are made concerning how this might be accomplished. The second type of comment concerns the model simulation of the policy instruments. Difficulties in this sphere are due primarily to the model's level of aggregation; structural and social policies cannot easily be simulated. The third category contains criticisms of the verbal description of the model. Since the model is not yet complete, many questions remain unanswered. However, even those areas that have been developed lack clarity on certain points. This work, it is hoped, will serve as a basis for revision and clarification of both the model and model description.