ABSTRACT
This chapter provides an understanding of political communications, public affairs and lobbying. It includes a particular focus on issues-related campaigns, monitoring public opinion and engaging with the political process. The chapter examines the implications of the cultural context of 'post-truth politics' in relation to populist movements and professionalisation of political relations (PR). The public or private communications raises concerns about privileged access for those with money and/or influence in society. PR practitioners working for government and public sector organizations seek to inform, persuade and engage the population and the media in policy decisions and issues affecting everyone in society. Issues-related campaigns may use social marketing or agenda-setting strategies. The development of a social media agenda extends and challenges debate beyond existing media, policy, corporate and public agendas. The emergence of 'post-truth' politics underlines the importance and challenges of contemporary professional, ethical practice.
