Discussion:
Whatever the focus of an advocacy action, the process of identifying the issue, analysing the political context, mapping the information marketplace, engaging others, developing, implementing and evaluating a strategic approach provides a critically important opportunity for personal and professional development.
The process of articulating priorities, interests and rights through planning advocacy can be as important as the act of claiming them through political organising. Acquiring and practising advocacy competencies, such as strategic planning, networking, communication, etc., will strengthen all participants' capacities to help their institutions, communities and systems to have a more sustainable positive impact on the health of current and, importantly, future generations.