Lobbying
Lobbying is the direct act of influencing proposed laws, especially to government officers and legislators. On the other hand, advocacy is attempting to cause political action using means such as public campaigns and civil educations. It involves speaking on behalf of a particular group of people. An example of advocacies is those who support women undergoing violence and are afraid to speak for themselves. Lobbyists often act as a bridge between the community and those in power, and they provide their information in the most transparent way possible.
In lobbying, the associations come together with the government in solving the community issues, for example handling accidents in workplaces. The AIHA and the Beta group have much ensured that the health of workers is catered. Through thorough research on the highlighted issues, lobbyists develop significant explanations and solutions to various community problems. It is through lobbying that the silent voices of the society are heard. For instance, if a government-oriented mining project causes much noise, dust, and other negative issues to the people living around, the lobbyists help air the community concerns. Lobbying ensures that all groups, such as farmers, are represented in the government.
However, lobbying has disadvantages. Lobbyists are naturally biased on the side they represent, and hence the government may have to be controlled by the organizations with the most money and power. This may result in the airing of the irrelevant minority voices. Lobbying is quite scary for the people working under the nonprofit associations. Due to a lack of money and power, these associations may be in great trouble with the government in case of errors, even if they are innocent about it.
Lobbying may also cost nonprofits in case of errors, and their donors find out.