Yogyakarta, 29 July 2023. On the third day of the International Government and Political Science Symposium, attendees were engaged in a captivating session on “Policy Advocacy” led by distinguished speaker Aswad Ishak, S.IP., M.Si., a respected lecturer from the Faculty of Social and Political Science at UMY. The session was moderated by Fauzia Nauri Qisty.
The focus of the session was on the critical role of communication in policy advocacy, as an effective means to disseminate information, influence public opinion, and garner support for policy changes. Throughout the talk, participants delved into various key points, drawing important conclusions.
One of the prominent aspects discussed was “Information Dissemination.” Aswad Ishak explained that effective communication allows policy advocates to present factual data and compelling arguments that support their proposed policy changes. By doing so, stakeholders gain a deeper understanding of the issues at hand, leading to more informed and supportive decisions.
Another crucial area of discussion was “Influencing Public Opinion.” The speaker highlighted the power of utilizing diverse communication channels, including mass media, social platforms, and public gatherings, to shape public opinion on specific policy matters. By influencing the way people perceive and respond to these issues, advocates can generate broader support for their proposed policy changes.
The session also addressed the challenges and opposition that policy advocates might encounter during the advocacy process. Effective communication, as explained by Aswad Ishak, enables advocates to address and overcome these obstacles by presenting strong arguments and being receptive to input from various parties. This fosters the development of more persuasive strategies.
The importance of gaining support from political decision-makers and other stakeholders was another significant aspect of the discussion. The speaker emphasized that through open and effective communication, advocates can build strong relationships with influential individuals who have the power to implement policy changes.
The talk also highlighted the significance of using appropriate communication approaches. Aswad Ishak stressed the need to choose communication methods wisely, such as lobbying, direct advocacy, publishing information materials, and media campaigns. These approaches should be tailored to the target audience, ultimately strengthening advocacy messages and raising awareness about policy issues.
Participants demonstrated an incredible level of enthusiasm throughout the session, which led to engaging discussions. As a result, the speaker generously dedicated ample time to address the participants’ questions and concerns, making the symposium an interactive and valuable experience for everyone involved.
The third day of the International Government and Political Science Symposium served as an eye-opening platform for exploring the indispensable role of communication in effective policy advocacy. Participants left the session inspired and equipped with valuable insights that will undoubtedly shape their future endeavors in the realm of politics and governance.
