Interest Groups and how they work ITC/ILO December 14- 18 2009 Young Trade Union Leaders Prepared by Victoria Munsey

What is an interest group? “A group of persons having a common identifying interest that often provides a basis for action.” Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary

What are some examples of an interest group? Green Peace Amnesty International National Rifle Association (NRA) Madres de Plaza Mayo Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals

What is a pressure group? Some scholars maintain that when an interest group decides to try to influence government, it should be called an pressure group. Other scholars feel that the distinction is not always clear. What do you think?

Factors contributing to success for interest groups “Density”: the ratio between actual members and potential members. The higher the density, the more representative the group. But can you see a possible problem here? Financial Resources: can help the group buy advertising, contribute to political parties, promote itself to gain visibility.

Factors contributing to success for interest groups Prestige: helps the group “get in the door” to talk to legislators, local government administrators, etc. Organizational skills: being able to respond quickly, clearly and concisely to changes in the political scene.; receiving information quickly about such changes.

Factors contributing to success for interest groups Militancy: having members who are willing to go out on the streets for a peaceful protest, write letters to their representatives in Parliament, local authorities, the media. Skills and specialized knowledge which add to the group’s public image of authoritativeness.

Factors contributing to success for interest groups Electoral strength: the group is able to count on a secure and substantial block of voters who can be counted on to vote as the group’s leaders direct. This has often been an important factor for labor unions all over the world.

What instruments can interest groups use to make their voice heard? A newsletter A web site and/or blog A mass-mailing to a targeted mailing list A press office responsible for sending regular press releases to the mass media, both local and national; Participation in TV and Radio broadcasts Can you think of some others?

Potential Allies/ Potential Adversaries Interest groups must think strategically to identify groups which might become allies. What sort of questions should groups ask themselves when seeking allies? Interest groups must also identify potential adversaries. How can they do this?

Interest Groups must identify communication goals/strategies What is our key message? What messages should we avoid giving? Who is our primary audience? Who is our secondary audience? Which of the media is best suited to our message/audience? How can we verify the impact of our message on our audience?

Periodic review of communication activities Maintain a library for press clippings and audio recordings Use formal or informal opinion Surveys Review communication goals and strategies selected in the light of changing political/social/economic conditions Be prepared to make changes in your message or delivery style if necessary!