What is the definition of a pressure group?

• A. A voluntary group of people sharing a common cause who try to influence decision-makers and policy by applying pressure.
• B. An organization funded by the government to implement policies.
• C. A group that avoids engaging with policymakers.
• D. A club with no policy influence.

Answer: (A)

Pressure groups are voluntary associations formed by people who share a common cause and seek to influence government decisions on public policy by applying pressure. They focus on specific issues and work to persuade decision-makers through lobbying, campaigns, mobilizing supporters, media engagement, and sometimes protests or petitions. This combination of voluntary membership, a shared purpose, and deliberate efforts to shape policy distinguishes them from government-funded bodies that implement policies, groups that avoid engaging with policymakers, or clubs without any policy influence.