Informational lobbying and activist resources: comparing mobilisations against school closures in Sweden

Abstract

Information is often regarded as the main currency for interest group influence. However, studies explaining the use of informational lobbying tactics among interest groups are rare and the studies that do exist only focus on highly professionalised organisations. This article analyses the determinants of information provision among informal and loosely organised groups. It argues that we need to shift the focus from organisational resources to activist resources to explain informational lobbying by such groups. By mobilising activists who are able to donate time/money and who have civic and analytical skills, informal groups compensate for their lack of organisational resources. A study of the tactics used against school closures in Sweden is presented. The results reveal that informal groups in high-income districts and in districts with numerous white-collar parents are more likely to provide policy-relevant information to politicians. The results show smaller district differences when it comes to protest tactics.