Effective advocacy strategies for influencing government nutrition policy: a conceptual model

Katherine Cullerton,Amanda Lee,Danielle Gallegos,Timothy Donnet

doi:10.1186/s12966-018-0716-y

Abstract

Influencing public policy change can be difficult and complex, particularly for those with limited power and resources. For any one issue there may be several groups, including the commercial sector and public health advocates advocating from different policy perspectives. However, much of the public health advocacy literature and tools available for those wanting to improve their practice is based on research from one specific perspective of an issue. This approach deprives advocates of potential insight into the most effective levers for this complex and difficult process. To provide a more comprehensive insight into effective levers for influencing public health policy change, a conceptual model for poorly-resourced advocates was developed. The model was developed through the integration and synthesis of policy process and network theories with the results from three studies conducted previously by the authors: a systematic literature review; a social network analysis of influential actors in Australian nutrition policy; plus in-depth interviews with a sample of these actors who had diverse perspectives on influencing nutrition policy. Through understanding the key steps in this model advocates will be better equipped to increase political and public will, and affect positive policy change.

Highlights

Influencing public policy change can be difficult and complex, for those with limited power and resources
Key themes from three studies on power and influence in public health nutrition policy were identified and synthesised into a conceptual model to increase the influence of advocates in nutrition policymaking
It is important to note that this model does not encapsulate all of the findings from the three studies or all facets of influencing the policymaking process; rather, the model serves as a practical, heuristic model for poorly-resourced individuals or organisations

Summary

Introduction

Influencing public policy change can be difficult and complex, for those with limited power and resources. One of the key difficulties is that the development of public policy is rarely a linear process [1]. It is constructed through complex interactions and negotiations amongst a range of stakeholders, including politicians, interest groups, advisers, bureaucrats, and a range of other actors [2]. Gaining the support of the public is one important factor in policy change, ensuring you have political will is essential [3]. For those outside policymaking circles, from resource-poor organisations, influencing the policy process can seem an impossible task.

Methods

Results

Conclusion