Why are some pressure groups more successful than others?

There are many reasons for why some pressure groups are more successful than others. One of them is due to their relationship with the government.  Some insider pressure groups are in close contact with senior civil servants and ministers and are therefore able to influence legislation.  For example, Trade Unions and the British Medical Association may be asked to share their expertise and policy details.  These groups may be more successful than outside groups , who will find it hard to influence government legislation.  These may be groups who wish to work with the government such as Greenpeace or because of their violent methods that cannot be associated with the government, for example Anti Animal Testing Groups.  Therefore, these groups may be less successful in directly influencing the government.

Furthermore, a reason why some pressure groups are more successful is because of there financial situation and organisation.  Pressure groups can receive money from membership fees and donations for instance.  Evidently, this results in pressure groups having a higher success rate as they can spend more money on advertising and employing professional lobbyists, scientists etc. Ultimately, this can influence public opinion and the government, making the pressure group more successful, for example Live 8.  In addition the success of a pressure group is also based on there organisation, more publicity campaigns can keep the cause going and gain support from the public eye.  In recent events, Ash was successful promoting the dangers of smoking which resulted in the ban in public areas.  Therefore, this shows that wealthy and organised pressure groups may be more successful in influencing the government.

Moreover, a third reason why some pressure groups are more successful than others is due to the media.  Media coverage plays a significant role in manipulating the views of the public, the media will portray a pressure group as important or not important therefore influencing public opinion.  For instance, Live 8 used the media to raise awareness of problems in Africa, without media attention the pressure group would have been unsuccessful.  This shows that the media helps to improve public image, however it is apparent that a well known charismatic leader can influence the success of a pressure group.  For example, Bob Geldof and Bono helped to promote problems in Africa.  This maintains that the media can determine the success of a pressure group.

In conclusion, the decision on methods used can affect the success of  pressure group.  For instance, Amnesty International refuse to use militant methods to promote there cause.  On the other hand, extreme methods used by pressure groups can lead to the alienation of public support.  For instance, the direct action used by Father 4 Justice and Anti Animal Testing groups can often be of a violent nature.  Therefore, this implies that the methods of practice used can effect the success of a pressure group.