Stakeholder Engagement

Case Studies
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What is your political strategy to achieve your goals?

Case Study: LGBTQI+ campaign

Effective political campaigns begin with understanding who holds power, who shares your goals, and who stands in the way. This framework outlines the main priorities and steps in stakeholder engagement.

Identify Stakeholders

The first step is mapping the political landscape:

  • Allies — Supportive members, likely from the progressive wing, younger members, women’s groups, unions, or inclusive leaders
  • Opponents — Those sceptical of LGBTQI+ campaigns, including conservative factions, religious members, and strategists concerned about voter alienation

Categorise Stakeholders

Using the Power Mapping Matrix, stakeholders are placed according to their power and interest:

  • High Power, High Interest (Core Allies) — Prioritise for direct engagement
  • High Power, Low Interest (Dormant) — Influential but neutral; aim for passive support
  • Low Power, High Interest (Supporters) — Passionate but less influential; involve in grassroots activities
  • Medium Power, Low Interest (Staff, Strategists) — Keep informed; seek to neutralise and demonstrate electoral benefits
  • High Power, Low Interest (Values-based opponents) — Allocate resources carefully; match strength with strength where necessary

Engagement Strategy for Allies

Key Players — Involve them in policy creation, provide advocacy materials, and highlight party success stories.

Grassroots Supporters — Engage them in events and advocacy roles to build momentum from the ground up.

Neutralising Opponents

Key Opponents — Avoid direct confrontation; address concerns and seek common ground on shared priorities.

Latent Opponents — Offer reassurances that LGBTQI+ policies align with their existing priorities; avoid actions that could provoke active opposition. Frame the electoral benefits clearly.

Communication Channels

  • Tailor outreach methods — public forums, small meetings, one-to-one conversations — according to each stakeholder’s influence and interest level
  • Provide regular updates to reinforce ally commitment while monitoring opponent activity
  • Use personal storytelling and evidence-based arguments to shift perceptions over time