Advocacy & Policy Influence for Social Impact

Course Overview:

Effective advocacy drives social change, influences policy, and amplifies marginalized voices. This course equips participants with practical advocacy planning tools, lobbying strategies, and policy engagement techniques to advance their organization’s mission. Through interactive exercises and real-world case studies, participants will learn how to develop campaigns, engage decision-makers, and leverage media and public support to create lasting impact.

Key Learning Outcomes:

• Develop strategic advocacy plans with clear objectives and impact pathways.
• Learn lobbying techniques and engagement strategies for policymakers.
• Strengthen media and public relations skills to build awareness and support.
• Understand how to mobilize communities and networks for collective action.
• Apply best practices in advocacy monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MEL).

Topics Covered:

Foundations of Advocacy & Policy Influence

• Advocacy vs. Lobbying: Understanding the Difference
• Building an Effective Advocacy Strategy
• Stakeholder & Power Mapping for Policy Influence Day 2: Advocacy in Action
• Media & Communication Strategies for Advocacy Campaigns
• Engaging Policymakers & Decision-Makers for Policy Change
• Case Study: Successful Advocacy Campaigns & Lessons Learned

Target Audience: Advocacy officers, NGO leaders, policy advisors, communication specialists