Factors in the success and failure of pressure groups Flashcards
How can membership size cause pressure group success?
The more supporters a group has, the more pressure it can place on decision makers. This is because politicians do not like to fly in the face of public opinion, as they regularly face the need for re-election
Describe how membership size can cause government failure
- Smaller groups can be ‘drowned out’ by the campaigns of larger groups
- These groups find it difficult to gain funds, as they have fewer people to participate and raise them
Describe how finance can cause pressure group success
Wealthy groups can afford expensive campaigns, employ lobbysists, sponsor political parties and purchase favourable publicity
How can finance cause pressure group failure?
Groups with less funding struggle to organise effective campaigns, hire lobbyists, fund the production of leaflets, websites and other research, and therefore struggle to make their voices heard
How can the strategic position of a particular sectional group cause pressure group success?
A group seen as important to the economy or an important public service can put greater pressure on government.
How can the strategic position of a particular sectional group cause pressure group failure?
Groups seen as unimportant can be ignored, especially if they are competing with an ostensibly important group; this happened to the Occupy movement, as it was strategically unimportant compared to the finance sector
How can public mood cause pressure group success?
When paired with strong campaigning, public sentiment can bring an issue to the attention of decision makers, as politicians are more likely to support a popular cause
How can public mood cause pressure group failure ?
Public mood can turn politicians against certain groups, either for the issue they champion, or because of the unpopularity of the methods they use
How can the attitude of government cause pressure group success?
Pressure groups are far more likely to achieve success if the government is sympathetic to their cause
How can the attitude of government cause pressure group failure?
If the government is determined to follow a particular form of action opposed by the group, it is very unlikely they will be able to change their mind. This was the case in 2003 with the stop the war coalition
Who are the ASH?
Action on Smoking and Health
What are the objectives of ASH?
Wish to spread knowledge about the harmful effects of tobacco use and pressing governments to adopt policies that inhibit its uses
What are the methods of the ASH?
- Conducts research and publishes information on the effects of tobacco
- Uses insider status to lobby lawmakers and governments, mainly using scientific data to underpin its case
What successes have the ASH enjoyed?
- Restrictions on tobacco advertisements and sponsorships
- Health warning on cigarette packets
- Persuading the government to increase tax on tobacco to deter consumption
Where has the ASH failed?
They would like to go further on smoking bans and also wish to challenge e-cigarettes. So far, it has not changed government policy in these areas
Why is the ASH successful?
- Helps government make policy by providing evidence and information
- It acts responsibly
- It has built up a network of parliamentary and government support
What is the RMT?
The National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers
What are the objectives of the RMT?
The promotion of better pay and working conditions for its members, including shorter hours and safer working conditions
What methods does the RMT use?
- Negotiating contracts with major transport companies
- Lobbies government for better legislative protection for worker safety
- Organises and conducts strikes to put pressure on employees
- Runs its own credit union to support members financially
- Has historically put candidates up for election
- Endorses parties they feel represent their members interests
