Anticipatory Governance: Policy-Making for Events That Have Not Yet Occurred

BIPSS Research Associate Mohosina Mostofa Mity highlights in her commentary that anticipatory governance is not about predicting the future perfectly, but about acting on early warnings before risks become crises. Her analysis shows how governments often fail not due to lack of information, but due to weak coordination and slow decision-making. From Bangladesh’s public health gaps to global cases of delayed response, the key challenge is turning foresight into timely action. She argues that stronger institutions, faster coordination, and “decision bridges” are essential for making governance truly future-ready.