ABSTRACT
The roles and contributions of voluntary, non-profit organizations in the policy process have been identified as: identifying issues on the policy agenda; developing policy solutions through research and analysis, i.e. policy-ready research; and promoting particular policy solutions', which includes mobilizing through demonstrating and advocating directly to government. This chapter examines the theoretical debates regarding non-profits in the policy process. It explores how non-profits engage with the policy process, whether through advocacy or co-construction. The chapter examines the tools and methods employed by non-profits in the policy process. The chapter focuses upon non-profit organizations that have a mission to contribute to the public good within fields of activity including health, culture and recreation, social services, development and housing, environment, law and advocacy, volunteerism promotion and international activities, following categories identified in the International Classification of Non-Profit Organizations. The nature of government regulation of civil society also has a considerable impact on the ability of non-profits to engage in effective advocacy.
