Focus for influence --- They also provide a place/focus for groups that are not part of the formal negotiation process to be able to input their perspectives, evidence etc. I'm thinking of the social movement that grew up around people living with aids that formed a powerful influence or lobby group in promotion of access to free ARTs- they could reach individuals as well as organise to present evidence at moments before inter-agency meetings.

Source author: Teresa Hanley thanley7@gmail.com