Transformational lobbying
In this insightful session led by Jenny Brown, Senior EU Relations Adviser at Christian Aid, we explore the fundamentals of lobbying and advocacy. Learn how to effectively influence policymakers for meaningful change, utilizing Christian principles of justice and compassion. We will discuss the key elements of successful lobbying, including message crafting, target identification, and strategic engagement methods. Discover practical tips for successful meetings and the importance of building relationships with decision-makers. Join us to empower your advocacy efforts!
Transformational lobbying
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Presentation Transcript
Transformational lobbying Jenny Brown – Senior EU Relations Adviser Christian Aid 12 February 2011
The plan for today • What is lobbying? And……… • How do you do it? And then…….. • Your turn!
The Christian approach “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed meto proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour.” Luke 4:18-19
Influencing for change….. • Advocacy……. includes a range of activities which organisations or individuals can take to exert pressure for change in a specific policy or behaviour of a government, organisation (e.g. EU) or possibly a single individual. It can be public or private influencing to achieve a change.
Advocacy……. • Awareness-raising • Lobbying • Campaigning • Media
Lobbying………… “Directlypersuadingdecision-makers and influential stakeholders of the importance of your advocacy objectives and convincing them to act accordingly”
Lobbying……… • The message – what needs to change • The targets – who can make the change happen (power analysis) • The methods – conversations, meetings, briefings (choice of style) • The purpose – to make the change happen
…….but tax is good! • Tax as development issue • Message – need for transparency in corporate tax reporting and in tax havens • Target – European Commission • Method – conversations, meetings, briefings • Purpose – Tax and Development Communication reflects Christian Aid concerns
Lobby meetings: before • Know your audience – views, knowledge, what they can do, dynamics • Know your stuff! • Timing – processes, events, other ‘hooks’ • Agree strategy for meeting – objectives, message, roles, possible compromises • Anticipate difficult questions and plan responses • Prepare briefing
Lobby meetings: during • Introductions, agree agenda • Make the message relevant • Emphasise your perspective and expertise • Keep it clear, concise, factual • Provide evidence • Offer examples to illustrate • State desired action • Agree specific next steps (and timescale)
Stating the obvious, maybe, but… • Listen • Ask questions (show an interest) • Show respect • Stay calm! • Don’t bluff • Don’t waste time • Watch your body language
Lobby meetings: after • Debrief • Write notes • Evaluate • Thank (and summarise main points) • Follow up
Tips for talking to politicians • You may know more than they do • They have an interest (your vote!) in being polite to you and listening to you • You have a right to talk to them • Cultivate their assistants
