Nelson - Political Science-Canadian Politics on the Web/Social Movements and Interest Groups

SOCIAL MOVEMENTS AND INTEREST GROUPS

Many groups find that their interests are better advanced if they organize and act collectively. They undertake political action or education in the hope of furthering their causes. For most of these groups, political activity is just one facet of their work.

Some private individuals and companies act as professional lobbyists for other groups or companies. Lobbyists try to exert influence on government decision makers to ensure favourable laws and contract awards. Lobbyist registration tries to ensure lobbyists working with the federal level of government behave according to certain standards.

INTEREST GROUPS

Aboriginal Issues

African Heritage

The Council of Canadians of African and Caribbean Heritage

Business Issues

Canadian Defence Preparedness Association
Citizens Concerned About Free Trade
Mining Association of Canada (MAC)
Retail Council of Canada has a section for its members where they can get briefing notes for negotiations with government

Environment and Natural Resources

Action 21 is a site maintained by the Atlantic Region of Environment Canada, which provides extensive help for groups wishing to take action on environmental issues.
Ecology Action Centre
Environmental Youth Alliance
Greenpeace Canada
Pacific Salmon Alliance