Pressure Groups in the UK
Pressure Groups in the UK
Definition of Pressure Groups
- Pressure groups are groups of like-minded individuals who join together to influence public policy and decisions.
- Unlike political parties, they do not seek to gain power themselves, but wish to influence those in power.
Categories of Pressure Groups
- They can be categorised into insider and outsider groups.
- Insider groups work within the political system and have regular contact with decision-makers.
- Outsider groups are those which don’t have direct access to the decision-making process and resort to influencing public opinion through campaigns and protests.
How Pressure Groups Operate
- Tactics used to influence policy include lobbying, demonstrations, strikes, media campaigns, and submitting evidence to legislative committees.
- They represent a broad range of interests, from environmental protection to business interests.
Significance of Pressure Groups
- Pressure groups are an important part of democratic participation and pluralism.
- They offer an avenue for individuals to participate politically, beyond voting in general elections.
- They also provide a crucial check on government power by advocating for public interests, and they help to raise awareness on specific issues.
Criticisms of Pressure Groups
- Criticisms include their lack of accountability and unequal influence, with wealthier groups able to afford more influence.
- They can be accused of being narrow and self-interested, caring only for the interests of their own members at the expense of wider public interest.
Recent Examples of Pressure Group Activism
- Recent examples of successful pressure group activism in the UK include the work of groups like Extinction Rebellion on climate change, and Marcus Rashford’s campaign on school meal provision.