This paper focus on the varying interaction dynamic of policymaking processes, which may even observable within one policy field. It asks for reasons for differing involvement of political actors (parliamentarian and party members), administrations, experts and interests groups at the stage of policy formulation and decision. The empirical analysis is done by a comparison of three case studies relating to the field of labour market policy in Germany (minimum wage; support of indigent children; reform of active labour market instruments). The explanation for the varying dynamic is on the one hand linked to the shape of suitable knowledge relating to the decision content, which refers under conditions of contingency and complexity to possible reliefs for political actors through legitimating expertise. On the other hand the explanation focus on the interplay with recognition and construction of target groups, which shapes the need for political involvement in policy formulation and public justification.
