Most NGOs struggle with NCD policy advocacy because they use outdated approaches that don't match how modern policy systems actually work. Learn proven strategies for effective government engagement and sustainable policy change. To learn more, visit: https://www.advocacyincubator.org/news/2025-05-06-ghai-remarks-at-the-un-multistakeholder-hearing-on-the-prevention-and-control-of-ncds
Here's something that might surprise you: the biggest barrier to preventing non-communicable disease deaths isn't lack of medical knowledge or even insufficient funding. It's that most NGOs are completely wrong about how policy advocacy actually works. Every year, 41 million people die from heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and other NCDs that could be prevented with better policies. NGOs know this, they have the expertise to help, but they keep using advocacy strategies that worked twenty years ago in completely different political environments. The typical NGO approach looks like this: wait for a policy proposal to appear, write a detailed position paper explaining why it's inadequate, submit it during the public comment period, then wonder why nothing changes. It's like showing up to a construction site after the foundation is poured and suggesting they use different blueprints. Real policy influence happens during the planning phase, not the commenting phase. Successful organizations build relationships with policymakers during quiet periods, position themselves as trusted resources for accurate information and community insights, and understand the specific moments when different types of input can actually shape decisions. But here's where it gets really interesting: the most effective NGOs don't just participate in policy development, they actively expand the resources available for implementing those policies. They understand that sustainable change requires predictable funding, which means getting involved in budget advocacy and supporting strategies like health taxes that generate revenue while reducing harmful behaviors. The other crucial element most NGOs miss is recognizing industry interference. Health-harming companies use sophisticated tactics to weaken or delay policies that threaten their profits, borrowing strategies from the tobacco industry playbook. NGOs that understand these tactics can counter them through strong conflict of interest rules and transparent policy processes. Organizations that master these approaches achieve remarkable results. Some have supported policy victories covering billions of people across dozens of countries by combining systematic technical assistance with strategic partnership development and continuous evaluation of what actually works in different political contexts. The key insight is that policy change at the national level creates population-wide health effects that are both cost-effective and sustainable, making advocacy investments incredibly valuable for organizations focused on maximizing impact. If you want to learn more about proven strategies for NCD policy advocacy, visit the link in the description to explore resources from the Global Health Advocacy Incubator, which has extensive experience helping organizations achieve lasting policy change. Global Health Advocacy Incubator City: Washington Address: 1400 I Street Northwest Website: https://www.advocacyincubator.org/