What Are Interest and Pressure Groups?
Definition
Interest groups
Interest groups are organizations that seek to influence public policy to benefit their members or advance a specific cause.
Definition
Pressure groups
Pressure groups are a type of interest group that actively lobbies (seeks to influence) government decisions.
Types of Interest and Pressure Groups
- Sectional Groups: Represent specific segments of society, such as trade unions or professional associations.
- Cause Groups: Focus on promoting a particular cause or issue, like environmental protection or human rights.
- Insider Groups: Have close relationships with policymakers and are often consulted on policy decisions.
- Outsider Groups: Lack direct access to decision-makers and may use public campaigns or protests to exert influence.
- Greenpeace is a cause group.
- It uses direct action and public campaigns to raise awareness about environmental issues and pressure governments to adopt sustainable policies.
How Do Interest and Pressure Groups Operate?
- Lobbying: Directly engaging with policymakers to influence legislation or regulations.
- Public Campaigns: Raising awareness and mobilizing public support through media, protests, or social media.
- Research and Advocacy: Producing reports and policy recommendations to shape public debate.
- Legal Action: Using the courts to challenge or promote specific policies.
