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it's so really important to understand political environment for a successive advocacy approach. and this is because by understanding a certain political environment( restrictive, semi-open or open ) approach can be appropriate for a certain advocacy context but not for another .

what stood out for me in this topic is the restrictive context:
and how one has to be extra careful before implementing some laws that are centered around the positive outcomes of an organization.

because of the fear of stepping on toes , getting fired, creating enemity unknownly .

The very prevalent issue of restrictive and semi-open governments poses significant hinderances on the abilities of NGOs to work and actively make change in different countries without fearing imprisonment or worse. I feel that this issue is only becoming worse, where speaking up about the truth and seeking justice is becoming less and less acceptable. Consequently, the growth of fear among all non-governmental parties involved inevitably impacts those most vulnerable, whom we strongly seek to assist and provide a better life for, but are met with inumerable hurdles in attempting to do so.

Nice introduction and indeed I belief, that the context under which each of our organization works highly influences how we solve problems that we face as institutions.

I have not thought about the political context before because my experience in the US, in California, has been one of openness and I have no fear to speak about what our NGO wants. It is interesting to think about what the advocacy process must be like in countries that do not want to hear the opinions of the citizens and, even worse, will possibly hurt them for speaking out.

I advocate at the Capitol in California. Even though I do not worry about being harmed, I do have to take into consideration who I speak to and what I speak to them about because you want to keep a good reputation and everyone talks to each other there. I also want to stay within the guidelines of etiquette required at the Capitol. I have found this is unspoken and unwritten and I have learned it from having a community of like-minded individuals to serve at mentors.

This is a really good example of how we can use advocacy by setting up examples and being like a dictator.

Thank you Instructors for this elaborate lecture.

It is crucial to consider the type of context the system of government is because it informs what missions (problems to address) and strategies to develop and pursue. The political arena is central in decision making as policies of functionality covers laws and regulations on which NGOs are established, and operate, irrespective of the views of other non-political stakeholders. These laws must be adhered to, to avoid going against the law, being sued, or closed. So, it is crucial to identify what problems to advocate for within the state/federal laws to ensure it is worth the effort. Using evidence-based approach may influence policy makers to reevaluate their policy irrespective of contextualization which may foster collaboration with NGOs in addressing problems or challenges in their communities/state or nation that they did not know existed or did not see as a significant public or social issues of concern.

Different issues affect various communities and individuals differently. What might work as an advocacy approach for one group might not be as effective for another. Understanding the social, cultural, economic, and political context in which an issue arises is vital for tailoring advocacy strategies that resonate and have a greater chance of success.

What an eye opener topic to roll out the advocacy foundation. Sure, political context in our countries determine if our advocacy is going to succeed or fail. Most countries work under semi open context environment, and this gives us common platform to share ideas.

The idea of getting to the core problem first before find solutions to it as an advocate is crucial and great starting point.

Am so excited to be part of this a Advocacy community and I look forward to learn more from you guys and equally share mine.

I agree it is important to do research on what the problem is.

Political contexte ist very important in the that the gouvernement determines the the life of population. So if we want to be efficient in our our activities, we have to take this question into account

Advocacy involves the process of influencing public policies, decisions, and attitudes on various social, economic, and political issues. It's a means for citizens, civil society organizations, and interest groups to voice their concerns, promote change, and hold the government accountable. Advocacy in Nigeria covers a wide range of issues, including human rights, corruption, education, health care, gender equality, environmental sustainability, and more.

Advocacy and politics are inherently intertwined, as advocacy seeks to shape political decisions and politics provide the framework within which advocacy operates. While advocacy can bring about positive change, it also requires strategic navigation of political realities and careful consideration of its impact on the democratic process.

Advocacy acts as a catalyst for change, fostering a dynamic relationship between citizens, civil society, and government institutions. It has the potential to drive positive transformations while navigating the intricacies and challenges of the political landscape.

Political advocacy can have a profound impact on shaping public policies and influencing legislative decisions. However, it often involves challenges such as resistance from opposing interest groups, competing policy priorities, and changing political landscapes. Successful advocacy requires strategic thinking, effective communication, a deep understanding of the political process, and a commitment to a cause over the long term.

While listening to the podcast I was thinking of the hidden interests in my context, even though a cause seems to be correct in the political and societal context it is not always good or aligned to the hidden interests of the people that could actually help. Taking the media for example, they must take care of their audiences and to befriends with the advertisers so there are some topics they are not going into not because they are not important, but because they might have a bad impact in their business.

First, identify the problem you are trying to solve and its underlying causes. Second, get a clear understanding of the current social, economic, political, and sometimes geographic or even geopolitical context. Then, choose the advocacy approaches which take into account the context. Third, create an adaptable implementation plan that considers potential changes in the context.

the advocacy is very important in level NGOs, to help the vulnerable community, so some times the political context can effect either positively or negatively and based on the type system that existing in this country

Understanding political context and its importance in advocacy is very important in achieving policy changes on local, state and or federal level.

It is crucial to tackle the underlying issues at the core of the problem we are currently grappling with. Drawing from my professional background, I firmly assert that gaining a comprehensive grasp of the local context, devoid of preconceived biases, is essential for attaining a deeper comprehension of the challenges we seek to address and advocate for. Consequently, prioritizing localization becomes paramount.

Understanding and addressing the root causes of the problem we aim to solve through inclusive advocacy approaches is crucial.

Our environment determine our success

I think the country's background is really essential to be figured out when listing the issues that we want to advocate for. The importance of an issue and its impact on the society also matters. For instance, an NGO may define a general problem that is very controversial globally, however, it may not has this huge impact on the society the NGO operating in. Prioritizing the issues that need to be solved in a country then choosing an advocacy tactic for each one of them and applying it in the right timing is the key.

Je crois que nous ne pouvons le contourner pour un monde efficace et équitable surtout.

Advocacy is a bold step in fighting for the vulnerable, under-pressed persons' rights. Depending on the Political context in your country, one generally needs to trade consciously to achieve the advocacy goal at the same time protect your colleague, yourself and the organization from being attacked by the government.

In my country, advocacy has been majorly hindered by the fact that everything has been politicized and every one is waiting/depending on political players for negotiations, policy implementation and decision making. It’s under such restrictive challenges that most NGOs have been engulfed into either politrix or political battles amongst political players/parties.

I now know where my country falls, semi- open but almost restrictive because NGOs must be careful in their operations. Is there really a count that has a completely open context?

I have a view that certain advocacies might not be so politically sensitive to attract restrictions from the powers that be. Take behavior change advocacy like campaign against drug abuse in a particular community. It might just address awareness of the dangers of this, which could turn away new people from getting involved. Advocacy for advancing the need for education and access to it in a particular community can also thrive outside political sensitivity.
In volatile political environment, advocacy groups would be walking the minefields by engaging in an NGO sponsored advocacies that confront political authorities headlong with a lot of consequences. I think an environmental political scanning could help with the choice of advocacy agenda that could save nine for the advocacy group. My humble perspective. Thanks

I agree!

I feel fortunate to work in a place that is mostly open. Our local government officials are happy to hold meetings with constitutents to hear their ideas and concerns. Our nonprofit has been fortunate to have open conversations in terms of budgeting and funding.

Doing advocacy is really great in places with good social understanding. For my Country is a different case all together. But people are trying to engages in slows pace in it.

taking our political content into consideration help in addressing the issue at hand which we need people to know and have a better understand why we are advocating

Absolutely, it's paramount to emphasize that advocacy should always stem from a clear understanding of the problem at hand rather than jumping straight into crafting strategies. The issues that NGOs typically grapple with are intricately linked to their core missions. They encompass a wide spectrum, ranging from the need for behavior change, like reducing smoking or combating HIV infection, to the imperative of improving public services and preserving shared resources. Additionally, NGOs often confront governance challenges, such as addressing corruption and unfair elections, while also championing the rights and well-being of marginalized groups, whether defined by ethnicity or gender-specific concerns. These problems often intertwine and defy neat categorization. Recognizing where your organization fits within these categories and the specific context it operates in is undoubtedly crucial when devising an effective advocacy approach.

Advocacy is a profound expression of our commitment to positive change. As advocates, we champion important causes, drive awareness, and shape policies that impact our communities and the world. Let's discuss the challenges, responsibilities, and transformative potential that come with being an advocate.

Advocacy is a profound expression of our commitment to positive change. As advocates, we champion important causes, drive awareness, and shape policies that impact our communities and the world. Let's discuss the challenges, responsibilities, and transformative potential that come with being an advocate.

Self-advocacy is the cornerstone of empowering individuals to contribute to NGOs and foster a better society. By recognizing and nurturing our own strengths and passions, we can amplify our impact in supporting nonprofits, catalyzing positive change, and promoting a more just and equitable world. Let's discuss the synergy between self-advocacy and creating a good society through NGO participation.

The essence of meaningful progress lies in our ability to first identify the problem and then determine the most effective approach to tackle it. By addressing this fundamental question, we can ensure that our efforts are not only well-directed but also impactful. Let's delve into the importance of clearly defining the problem and choosing the right path to address it.

The political environment should be given special attention since sometimes beneficiaries might need a certain change which the politicians are not ready to embrace especially in less democratic governments

Advocacy in the Political Landscape
In the realm of politics, advocacy plays a vital role in shaping policies and driving change. It encompasses various strategies and actions taken by individuals or organizations to influence decision-making processes and promote specific causes. With its profound impact on the political context, advocacy can be seen as a powerful tool for addressing societal issues and advancing positive transformations.

Advocacy serves as a platform for individuals or groups to voice their concerns, express their opinions, and champion their preferred agendas. Through this process, advocates aim to persuade policymakers, lawmakers, and other influential figures to support their cause and take action accordingly. This can be achieved through a range of activities, such as lobbying, public campaigns, grassroots mobilization, and engaging with the media.

One of the fundamental aspects of advocacy is its ability to bridge the gap between citizens and the political sphere. By providing a platform for individuals to express their needs and aspirations, advocacy ensures that the voices of the marginalized and underrepresented are heard. It empowers individuals to participate actively in the decision-making processes that directly impact their lives, fostering a more inclusive and democratic society.

Advocacy also plays a critical role in holding policymakers accountable for their actions and decisions. By closely monitoring government activities and policies, advocates can identify areas of concern, inconsistencies, or potential injustices. Through raising awareness, conducting research, and gathering evidence, advocates can effectively challenge these issues and push for policy reforms that better align with societal needs and values.

Furthermore, advocacy serves as a catalyst for change by mobilizing public support and generating momentum for transformative action. By engaging with communities and fostering dialogue, advocates can rally individuals around a common cause, creating a sense of urgency and collective responsibility. This collective action can exert significant pressure on policymakers, forcing them to address critical issues and implement necessary reforms.

However, advocacy in the political context can also face challenges and obstacles. Varying interests, competing priorities, and conflicting ideologies can hinder the progress of advocacy efforts. Additionally, the influence of powerful interest groups or the manipulation of public opinion can pose significant barriers to achieving desired outcomes.

In conclusion, advocacy is an essential component of the political landscape. It empowers individuals, amplifies their voices, and bolsters democratic processes. By engaging in advocacy, individuals and organizations can shape policies, address societal concerns, and work towards a more equitable and just society.

I agree that it is essential to understand all aspects of the problem in order to create effective solutions.

Yes very important to take such considerations

Before coming up with an advocacy in a given set up,you need to understand the political environment. This will help in coming up with the right approach or tactic to address the problem.

Your statement highlights a crucial aspect of advocacy – the need to understand and address the root causes of the issues at hand. Being inclusive and directly engaging with those affected by the problem is indeed a powerful approach. It ensures that advocacy efforts are grounded in real experiences and challenges. Additionally, by delving into the political context, advocates can tailor their strategies to navigate the specific challenges they may face. This nuanced understanding ultimately strengthens the effectiveness of advocacy initiatives. Well-articulated!

Children with Disabilities particularly children with Cerebral Palsy have limited access to healthcare services in Nigeria, resulting in adverse socio-economic outcomes and higher rates of poverty than the general population. They also encounter attitudinal and environmental barriers that hinder their equal and effective contribution to society. In Nigeria, there are over 29 million people living with disabilities, and it is estimated that nine out of ten Nigerians with disabilities live in poverty. However, Children with disabilities are one of the most marginalized and excluded groups in society, and oftentimes their issues are not prioritized in governments policies and programs. Facing daily discrimination in the form of negative attitudes, lack of adequate policies and legislation, they are effectively barred from realizing their rights to healthcare, education, and even survival. Children with on-set childhood disabilities such as cerebral palsy, autism, epilepsy, dawn syndrome and other medical complexities arising from circumstances of birth should not be denied the right to access health care services guaranteed by law.

Even though Nigeria signed and ratified the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) and further adopted the law prohibiting Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, in 2018. Yet, children with disabilities and their families often face pity and stigma. Discrimination reduces access to many aspects of life including education, health and work. Many discriminatory practices against persons with disabilities are entrenched and sustained by religion and cultural beliefs. Women with disabilities may encounter more obstacles than men. Children with disabilities may also face negative perceptions and resulting unfair treatment. Disabilities are often believed to be related to curses; ancestral violations; offenses against gods of the land; breaking laws and family sins; misfortune; witches and wizards; adultery; a warning from the gods of the land; societal taboos; misdeed in a previous life; illegal or unapproved marriage; evil spirits; and many others.

There is need to address the discrimination and harmful practices and abuse of fundamental human rights of children with disabilities. In Abuja particularly there is high cases of killing of children with cerebral palsy remain on the increase, and therefore called for drastic action by government to protect such children’s rights. Medical service and care for children with disabilities particularly cerebral palsy requires considerable resources and time. To manage and cope with a child ‘s functional limitation and possible life- long dependence presents a multifaceted challenge for parents as well as the entire family. Studies showed that parents of such children experience tension and struggle especially the mothers who has to be with this child most of the time providing care. Mothers of such children are overwhelmed with the caring responsibilities, some of them left even their formal employment to stay home with their disabled children.

One of the major hindrances to access to primary health care for children and young people with disabilities is the slow implementation of Discrimination against Persons with Disabilities (prohibition) Act. After years of signing the bill into law, Nigeria is yet to fully implement the appropriate measures required to achieve the objective of protecting people with disabilities particularly children and young people. Nigerians with health insurance provided by social security is 1.4 percent for persons with disabilities (2.9 percent for females, 0 percent for males), compared to 2.4 percent for persons without disabilities (1.7 percent for females, 3.1 percent for males). few state governments provide income support for older people and persons with disabilities. In general, there social protection for people with disabilities in Nigeria is regarded as ineffective, despite multiple programmes being funded and implemented across the country by numerous donors, non-government organisations, and agencies. In general, social protection programmes are uncoordinated, fragmented and inefficient.

The political setting determines the kind of advocacy to be carried out.

The political setting determines the kind of advocacy to be carried out.

The political context of a country has a very vital role to

Very interesting and enlightening.

The political context in my place is semi open. where the government seems to be open to allow peoples speak but they can be trailed. sometimes the political will is absent. government attempts to control the media and limit freedom of speech, but irrespective of that actions need to be initiated/ taken.

The importance of the political context in designing advocacy is a must as it shapes the whole advocacy strategy and tactics.

In political context, Advocacy is the fundamental mechanism for citizens and organizations to voice their concerns ,seek change and participate in the democratic process.
It can encompass a wide range of issues ,including social justice ,environmental protection ,human rights and healthcare ,education and more.

Understanding the political context is key, particularly when working internationally. No assumptions can be made, as noted, that what worked in one setting will be effective in an other. As important as the political context is the cultural context. In humanitarian organizations, particularly when responding to emergencies, it is not enough to understand the government. For example, when distributing emergency relief items, is it appropriate to ask the man or the woman of the household what is needed? How can you conduct a needs assessment in a community where women are not permitted out of the home? Often, before the direct services can be given, some advocacy activities are needed to gain access to the people who are most vulnerable.

By analyzing the root causes of a problem, one gains a comprehensive understanding of the issue at hand. Inclusivity ensures that diverse perspectives are considered, fostering a more accurate representation of the challenges faced. Direct engagement with individuals experiencing the problems provides invaluable insights, enabling advocates to tailor strategies that address the nuanced aspects of the issue and ultimately contribute to more effective solutions.

Designing a successful advocacy strategy involves defining clear goals, understanding the target audience, and tailoring messaging. Comprehensive research on the issue, identifying key stakeholders, and analyzing the political and social landscape is crucial. Utilizing diverse communication channels, forming strategic partnerships, and incorporating measurable indicators for success contribute to the strategy's effectiveness.

I clearly do agree with the whole idea of contextualization, I feel this would possibly help set boundaries as to what one can advocate for and to what extent they can go in their advocacy. There are few countries which allow NGO's to fully express themselves by giving an idea aimed at creating positive change, Many countries are actually Semi Open. A hindering factor to any form of progress.

Oct 22, 2020, 11:33 PM
Political environment not only determines the operations an NGO but can sometimes land the management to get troubles with the government regimes.

cool, I have found this course very interesting.

The starting point prior to developing any advocacy strategy is defining the problem. The way to define this problem is not exact and will not be the same for every organization but rather will. e relative to the issues at the heart of the NGO and its mission. There are no fine lines to defining the problem as the mission of most organisations will intersect between different social or political issues.
Additionally context is also important because this will largely affect the advocacy strategy which you choose to use

The importance of understanding the type of political environment that your organisation operates goes a long way to determine your advocacy approach.

Effectively addressing social issues requires contextualizing advocacy approaches, delving into root causes, and understanding perspectives. Inclusivity, involving those directly affected, enables a nuanced understanding, and facilitates targeted, sustainable solutions. This approach ensures marginalized communities' voices are heard, fostering holistic and empathetic advocacy for meaningful and lasting change.

Being conscious of the political environment is very important to the advocacy work. This is because it will help in shaping the governance structure of the organization. The political environment is also what allows an enabling environment for the success or otherwise of the advocacy work. Even in the event that the advocacy work is intended to change the political context, there is the need to still understand the political context.

I agree on understanding the problem we are trying to solve, and knowing the root cause. This will guide the advocacy structure and strategy to use. What we might consider to be a behavioral problem for example teenage pregnancies, could actually be lack of exposure, education and minimal access to basic needs leading to teenagers engaging in sex early. This understanding will guide the advocacy strategy as it will focus on the root cause.

Inclusitivity of the subject concerned is very vital, thus makes the team lead come out with the best solutions to the defined problems. Otherwise what one thinks is the solution might differ with what is really needed.

I think we have very few countries in which we have open contexts, where the opinion of stakeholders, NGOs, the constituents are actively sought by the decision-makers, ie politicians. I can only think of one, where there is an active type of direct democracy, where the voters are regularly at the polls to give their opinion on key governmental policies. In my country, the governance is not at all clear. There is a murky line of responsibility. The main taxing governmental body doesn't deliver the bulk of the programs in the areas of education and healthcare, resulting in poor accountability over the use of the public coffers for those sectors. We have to approach various levels of government, because the decision maker is not clearly one or the other level.

Indeed openness of those in political posts is crucial to achieve better results in Advocacy, but there's few places to find that.

a lot of countries in the world have facing this kind of political context. but a lot of countries especially underdevelopment countries have this kind of political context of restrictive which leds to many people not rise their voice to share what they have, in which we believe through sharing we can help getting different opinion which will leads to social change. But also think a lot of developed countries have semi open political context which help them to be where they are sometimes. According to that it gives as a hard time to reduce some social problem within the community.

So true as this could you and the organization to certain risk

This is absolutely an important factor, because if you do not put into consideration the context of your political environment while adopting advocay policies, you put your organisation and team at a risk.

I definitely agree with the idea because before delve into advocacy effort understanding the context is very much important to make our advocacy effort effective at the end of the day.

I am part of an institution in Pará Brazil Amazonia I know how difficult it is to defend rights. Here we fight to guarantee the human rights of children and adolescents who are victims of violence.

Restrictive delay development in most countries

Truly advocacy is a powerful tool for creating change, but it requires thoughtful planning. One must understand existing power dynamics and structures related to the cause and also identify who holds power and what your own level of power is. The risk involved and how to manage it is also imperative. So anticipating potential challenges and risks and developing strategies to mitigate the risks is important.

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I definitely agree. In my organization, we support libraries in our state. So many of the problems our libraries and library workers face are hotly politicized right now. Whether it's the burden of student loan debt for an advanced degree in an underpaid field or the freedom to practice librarianship in a way that is ethical and in line with best practices in the field. Listening to our library staff reveals not only their individual perspectives on the issue but also the nuances that only front-line workers can see. Knowing this context helps me be more effective in my work, and it helps me discern which problems take priority and which may need to be tabled.

Yes it is very important to analyse the political environnemental before to undertake advocacy activities, because the political context will help you to set up advocacy strategies.

A question that stood out for me was, "What is worth advocating for...?" - and it struck a nerve because in my country (Zimbabwe) - the context is (extremely) restrictive - and certain human rights are not valid in the law. For example, medical abortions are criminalized and regardless of the number of abandoned babies and unplanned ("unwanted") pregnancies - the law-makers refuse to acknowledge that there is a need for abortions to be legalized for the health and safety of the women and girls who find themselves in situations where they are forced to become mothers. To add to the problem, the guise of Christianity is used to reinforce the "pro-life" rhetoric, which makes the entire ordeal shameful and people who would want to have safe abortions find themselves alone, ashamed and unsupported.
I do think it is worth advocating for abortion rights in the country however, I fear that because the religious rhetoric is so prevalent, the advocacy would be hindered by widespread personal philosophies that condemn abortions, on a religious basis.

Another group of vulnerable people in Zimbabwe, are the lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender, queer, intersex and asexual people - they are altogether dismissed and their existence is criminalized - but even worse than that, their existence is largely perceived as disdainful. This, again is based on "culture" and religion. Unfortunately, being closeted and quiet is the only safe way for the community to exist. Being loud and proud will not only attract legal penalties but also public reproof and in some cases violent responses. So, the question of whether it is worth advocating for these rights in Zimbabwe would be no. Buuuuuut.... I would argue as well that, this is exactly the context where advocacy is most desperately needed. The context is restrictive and it would be unsafe, and many would argue that Zimbabwe has more pressing humanitarian issues to address (the unreliable water and electricity supplies, infrastructure and inhumane treatment of prisoners etc.) however, I believe that there is a need for progress and resistance - I commend GALZ and anyone else fighting for visibility in this harsh, harsh context.

Good work. Marijuana can be used, but it is necessary to have strong regulations to limit the abuse.

Yes it's important to have an understanding of the political situation and cultural concept of the country your organization is operating in

Good work. Marijuana can be used, but it is necessary to have strong regulations to limit the abuse.

The political context is essential for understanding and engaging in advocacy because it shapes the environment in which policies are formulated, decisions are made, and social change occurs. Politics refers to the distribution and exercise of power within a society, and it encompasses the interactions between various actors, such as government institutions, political parties, interest groups, and the general public.

Here are a few reasons why the political context is crucial for advocacy:

Policy-making: Advocacy aims to influence policies and bring about desired changes. Understanding the political landscape helps advocates identify the decision-making processes, key players, and power dynamics involved in shaping policies. It allows them to strategically target their efforts and build alliances to maximize their impact.

Public opinion and support: The political context includes public sentiment and popular opinion, which can significantly influence policy outcomes. Advocacy efforts often rely on mobilizing public support through awareness campaigns, public education, and grassroots organizing. By understanding the prevailing political attitudes and perceptions, advocates can tailor their messages and strategies to resonate with the target audience.

Legal and regulatory framework: Political systems establish the legal and regulatory frameworks within which advocacy operates. Familiarity with laws, regulations, and procedures relevant to the issue being advocated for is crucial for effective advocacy. It helps advocates navigate the system, identify potential barriers or opportunities, and ensure their activities comply with legal requirements.

Power dynamics and interests: Politics involves the distribution of power and competing interests. Advocacy requires an understanding of the power dynamics at play, including the influence of different stakeholders and their agendas. This knowledge helps advocates identify potential allies, opponents, or obstacles to their goals. It also allows them to anticipate and respond to potential resistance or backlash.

Policy implementation and enforcement: Even if advocacy efforts lead to policy changes, the political context remains important during the implementation and enforcement phases. Political will, bureaucratic capacity, and resource allocation are critical factors that affect the successful implementation of policies. Advocates need to stay engaged in the political process to ensure that policies are effectively executed and monitored.

In summary, the political context provides the framework within which advocacy efforts take place. Understanding the political dynamics, policy-making processes, public sentiment, legal frameworks, and power structures is crucial for effective advocacy and achieving the desired outcomes.

The political context is essential for understanding and engaging in advocacy because it shapes the environment in which policies are formulated, decisions are made, and social change occurs. Politics refers to the distribution and exercise of power within a society, and it encompasses the interactions between various actors, such as government institutions, political parties, interest groups, and the general public.

Here are a few reasons why the political context is crucial for advocacy:

Policy-making: Advocacy aims to influence policies and bring about desired changes. Understanding the political landscape helps advocates identify the decision-making processes, key players, and power dynamics involved in shaping policies. It allows them to strategically target their efforts and build alliances to maximize their impact.

Public opinion and support: The political context includes public sentiment and popular opinion, which can significantly influence policy outcomes. Advocacy efforts often rely on mobilizing public support through awareness campaigns, public education, and grassroots organizing. By understanding the prevailing political attitudes and perceptions, advocates can tailor their messages and strategies to resonate with the target audience.

Legal and regulatory framework: Political systems establish the legal and regulatory frameworks within which advocacy operates. Familiarity with laws, regulations, and procedures relevant to the issue being advocated for is crucial for effective advocacy. It helps advocates navigate the system, identify potential barriers or opportunities, and ensure their activities comply with legal requirements.

Power dynamics and interests: Politics involves the distribution of power and competing interests. Advocacy requires an understanding of the power dynamics at play, including the influence of different stakeholders and their agendas. This knowledge helps advocates identify potential allies, opponents, or obstacles to their goals. It also allows them to anticipate and respond to potential resistance or backlash.

Policy implementation and enforcement: Even if advocacy efforts lead to policy changes, the political context remains important during the implementation and enforcement phases. Political will, bureaucratic capacity, and resource allocation are critical factors that affect the successful implementation of policies. Advocates need to stay engaged in the political process to ensure that policies are effectively executed and monitored.

In summary, the political context provides the framework within which advocacy efforts take place. Understanding the political dynamics, policy-making processes, public sentiment, legal frameworks, and power structures is crucial for effective advocacy and achieving the desired outcomes.

This is one of the reasons I am taking this course because I have to figure out another avenue for the advocacy group. Something that will positively impact the community.

Am from Kenya, Political influence in Kenya is worst. Political leader are divided based on individual perception on the problem. It become more worse if the problem is embedded in cultural believes and religious practices.

I agree with you and now we are learning tools and skills that should assist us in causing a shift in the way reasoning around us and subsequently behavior.

Discussing the importance of understanding the political landscape within which advocacy efforts should be conducted. This includes factors such as government structures, political ideologies, power dynamics, and the role of stakeholders.

This has been a very informative session and i truly agree that understanding the context first is very important in guiding an organization in the process of identifying what strategy to use for what particular problem you are here to solve.

I agree that the political and social climate is important; however what if these are the very things that we are advocating against ie we want them to change

Are there any tools that you can use to assess how open or restrictive a system is?

I am very excited to implement the things i learned into my own organizations advocacy strategy.

Absolutely agree. Advocacy without considering the voice of the people experiencing the problem is wasted resources.

One cannot solve the effects of a problem, without solving the problem itself. Not only the hows (mechanics) of an issue, but also the whys.

There's definitely a relationship between advocacy and politics! Advocacy is all about influencing change and making your voice heard, and that often requires engaging with the political process. By working with policymakers and legislators, advocates can help to create and influence laws and policies that affect their cause. In a sense, advocacy is a way to make your voice heard in the political sphere. Without advocacy, many issues would never make it onto the political agenda.

There's definitely a relationship between advocacy and politics! Advocacy is all about influencing change and making your voice heard, and that often requires engaging with the political process. By working with policymakers and legislators, advocates can help to create and influence laws and policies that affect their cause. In a sense, advocacy is a way to make your voice heard in the political sphere. Without advocacy, many issues would never make it onto the political agenda.

I think advocacy and political context are like two wings that should work together for a safe journey in our daily activities

Yes, I could see that the issue of understanding the political environment is key to crafting an advocacy plan.This session is quite educative.

o contexto político desempenha um papel fundamental na prática da advocacia, moldando o ambiente legal, influenciando decisões judiciais e criando oportunidades e desafios para advogados e seus clientes. É importante para os advogados entenderem e navegarem nesse contexto para melhor atenderem às necessidades de seus clientes e defenderem seus interesses de maneira eficaz

Organizations must choose the best promotional approach that best suits them.

It was great listening to the podcast. The biggest key take is understanding the context and formulating a strategy that can work out well. It's great to learn that individuals doing advocacy need to walk away from the assumption that advocacy can be achieved with ease and to approach it in a manner that does not endanger their safety.

It is pretty obvious that the political context in which you operate is a strong determinant to the success or failure of your advocacy. This simply implies that one has to really understand the context in which s/he is operating before making any decisions.

I agree, also one has to be diplomatic about what he or she says or does. You can't do a lot when you are in prison, so try your best to advocate wisely based on any political climate in which you find yourself.

I would clearly state that without politics, life would be effortless. hence a vital space to take note of in pursuing anything.

My advocacy organization, (ACE) Advocacy for Community Enhancement, will deal with all aspects of community perspectives which will entail many contexts and strategies and present many challenges. In a community environment politics will always be at the center.

My goal is to meet the right people with the right access and experience to provide a clear pipeline of paperwork and connections and funding opportunities.