Prakash and Gugerty; 1-19

collective action

the effort to achieve a goal that benefits multiple individuals or groups that requires coordinated effort - requires overcoming incentives to free ride

free rider problem in social movements

individuals may benefit from the collective action of others without contributing themselves

role of advocacy organizations

key role in solving the collective action problem by organizing, mobilizing resources, and framing issues in ways that increase public participation and engagement

coordination problem

occurs when large numbers of actors must synchronize their actions to achieve a common objective

NGOs coordination problem

NGOs working in the global human rights movement face significant challenges in coordinating efforts across different countries and political contexts

Large-scale collective action

requires not only participation but also effective coordination to ensure that efforts do not become fragmented"

organizational structures within advocacy groups

1. hierarchical orgs

2. networked orgs

hierarchical orgs

tend to be more centralized any may have clear leadership but can be less flexible in responding to changing circumstances

networked orgs

these are more decentralized and adaptable but may struggle with coordination and maintaining a cohesive strategy

success of advocacy orgs

depends on their ability to mobilize resources; including funding, human capital, and political support

ex: WWF

ability to mobilize global resources for conservation efforts

role of political institutions

shapes advocacy orgs strategies and effectiveness

• democratic systems; advocacy orgs may find it easier to lobby governments and mobilize public support

• authoritarian regimes; may face repression and restrictions (China)

framing issues for collective action

appeal to public sentiment and galvanize action

framing of pro-life and pro-choice movements

US framed the issue of abortion in ways that resonate with their target audiences, mobilizing support and shaping political outcomes

globalization of advocacy

increasing importance of global advocacy networks which operate across national boundaries

local context

advocacy networks net to also adapt in local contexts to include different cultural norms, political environments, and social colaitions

local human rights orgs in Africa

work within their own political and social contexts to promote collective action while still being part of larger global networks