Lobby / advocacy

Influencing policies in the field of Development Cooperation at the national level

by Eric Bloemkolk

Guiding principles

Advocacy is effective when we

make the connection between the need for change felt by our counterpart(s) in the South and

create political will in our country and within international institutions

Guiding principles

Advocacy is effective when we

show to be reliable partners for policy makers: the process of building trust

are able make the connection with the political agenda of policy makers

What is Advocacy?

The process of influencing policy making in our country or at the level of international institutions (in support of processes of change in developing countries)

Basic assumptions about policy makers

In Parliament Dev. Coop. has low priority Parliamentarians have little knowledge about specific

situations and Do not attach much importance of civil society in

processes of change Have a full agenda Want clear policitical messages/statements)

Basic assumptions about policy makers

In Government Formally loyal to their minister Do have own opinion and are interested in (reliable)

alliances and to share information Have little or no sight on role / importance of civil

society in processes of change

Basic assumptions about advocacy

The do’s Be open about your objective(s) Be clear about your message: what policy should

change and what’s the proposal? Present proposal on bases of ‘facts and figures’, brief

analyses and/or statements of other ‘recognized’ institutions or persons

Basic assumptions about advocacy

The do’s Be reliable as a source and as a recipient of

information Prevent fragmentation: combine message with

others (in platforms, groups): be ‘representative’

Basic assumptions about advocacy

The don’ts Don’t just sent a letter or e-mail; seek personal contact Don’t be arrogant Don’t think you’re the only source of information Don’t mix up a proposal for policy change with lobby for own interest (institutional / financial support)

Before starting to advocate

Make a thorough analysis. Reflect!!!

What policy you want to change? What proposal for policy change you have? Who are the policy makers / have influence? Who are possible and impossible partners for

alliances?

Before starting to advocateMake a good plan!!!

When are the political important moments (momentum)?

What time do we have / need? What is our capacity? (financially and professional) What strategy? (together with others?) What actions? (talks, letter, conference, campagne,

article in newspapers?)

How do you know you’re having succes?

Monitor!

Develop indicators for the process (letter responded, article published, questions asked in parliament …)

How to have succes? Clear objectives and results Alliances who seek the same results Good relations with parlementarians and public servants Be aware of political agenda of parlementarians and other policy makers Have the full support from your own organization

Lobby & advocacy is something you have to do!

(And it’s great fun too!)