INFLUENCING POLITICAL OUTCOMES

Influencing political outcomes has many synonyms including educating lawmakers and providing helpful information. Public Policy Advocacy is about “educating,” “informing,” “advising”

Engaging solely with the government alone is not adequate. To maximize impact, you need  advocacy programmes that engage other critical stakeholders including regulatory bodies, NGOs, press and think-tanks. Successful advocacy and political influence are built on careful strategy, drawing on the key disciplines of:

  • Policy and political analysis – Understanding political objectives and tendencies, anticipating government policy;
  • Media – Knowing whether, when, how and in which media to advocate a cause;
  • Stakeholder Relations – Building partnerships of common interest, bringing on board influential third parties, and managing other third party risks.

Collectively, these activities make up more than the sum of their parts, so that advocacy becomes an art of engagement, information and persuasion.

Individuals and organizations rarely stand alone before Parliament or a regulatory agency. Individuals, businesses and organizations often have common interests that will provide a basis to work legislation effectively. Cooperation can significantly improve and strengthen the position being advocated on behalf of any individual or association. Coalition building is a key aspect of effective government relations. Many groups lack the staff, time or money to thoroughly participate in every legislative initiative or action on its own.

Public Affairs and PR firms often lack the high-end legal expertise necessary when lobbying legislative changes. On the other hand, it is no secret that most business lawyers, especially at major “full service” law firms, have no significant lobbying experience. But like at trial, in a lobbying case a client’s net worth may be in play. Combining legal expertise with lobbying knowledge is what can you set you apart. Understanding the technical considerations behind the full breadth of laws and regulations affecting clients, and combining government policy goals with client needs is critical.

From providing legal analyses of pending legislation to coordinating concerted efforts by industry groups, companies, and other interested parties, skilled Public Policy Advocates give clients a voice in the legislative process. They provide clients, counsel in formulating strategies for responding to legislative initiatives and in effectuating legislative change. They  regularly monitor legislative developments on issues affecting clients, providing them with timely insight regarding the legislative process.

 

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