Advocacy resource
"How to Advocate Effectively: A Guidebook for Business Associations"
Posted August 10, 2009 by Martina Bennett
Business represents an important segment of society – one that provides goods and
services, creates jobs, attracts investment, drives innovation, and increases the standard
of living. Yet, to fulfill its functions, business must be able to operate in a sound legal
and regulatory environment. Experience of various countries shows that for such an
environment to emerge, it is imperative for the private sector to participate openly in
the policymaking process.
Business associations provide the private sector with such an opportunity. Although
many think of business associations as providers of business information, networking
opportunities, education and entrepreneurial training, they actually do much more.
As a voice of the private sector, voluntary, independent business associations can lead
advocacy eff orts to create an environment conducive to entrepreneurship and business
development and growth. Effective business associations combine member services with
advocacy programs for policy reform in areas that aff ect their members and societies
in which they operate. In today’s world of global competition where businesses are
looking for associations that will help their bottom line, no association can aff ord to
overlook advocacy. In fact, advocacy is the key to an association’s success and survival.
The rewards for associations that advocate eff ectively are a stronger membership
base and a better business climate for members. Yet, successful advocacy programs
mean more than building a stronger membership base. By engaging the private sector
in policy debate, transparent advocacy processes strengthen democratic governance
and market institutions.
