SAQs
Now that you have completed this study session, you can assess how well you have achieved its Learning Outcomes by answering these questions.
How would you explain what advocacy means to a colleague who is not a WASH worker? Explain the difference between policy advocacy and programme advocacy.
Advocacy means making a case in support of a particular cause. It is a process that aims to influence decisions within political, economic and social systems and institutions.
Policy advocacy involves trying to influence senior politicians who are responsible for policy setting and aims to get changes in policies and legislation. Programme advocacy is more localised and directed to make changes in the opinions and attitudes of local leaders.
‘The intended impact of the work you are doing or the specific change that you want to see in improving urban WASH services.’
Is this a description of an advocacy goal or an advocacy objective?
This is an advocacy objective.
‘Objective’ refers to the desired changes in policy and practice that will be necessary to help you and your community meet a ‘goal’.
Give three reasons why networks can be more effective for advocacy than an individual working on their own.
A network brings together people with different knowledge, skills and experience, so there is more chance of someone having the specific skills for each of the tasks within an advocacy campaign such as leadership skills, public speaking skills, etc. Several people working together can share the tasks, which can be time-consuming and complex. They can also learn from each other and improve their knowledge and abilities.
Outline two particular challenges involved in urban WASH advocacy.
You may have mentioned any two of the following challenges:
- training communities, community leaders, networks and local water boards and associations on their rights and responsibilities regarding urban WASH laws, budgets and policies
- educating national and local political leaders on urban WASH
- strengthening policy dialogues between communities, civil society groups and decision makers
- urging increased funding for government-funded urban WASH programmes
- supporting high-quality urban WASH messaging in local news media, etc.