NGOs and Irradiation: A Public Policy Case Study

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NGOs and Irradiation A Public Policy Case Study
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Stratfor

• A global geopolitical and public policy
  intelligence firm
• Global reach
• Global expertise
• Offices in Austin, Washington and New York

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We Knows Activists

• Philosophies of groups and leaders
• Networks
• Methodology/tactics
• Allies
• Resources
• Objectives

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Activists

• Career activists/NGOs
• Churches
• Unelected public figures
• Competitors
• Students
• Teachers
• Civic groups
• Unions

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How Activists Control Issues

• Create public acceptance of their science
• Enlist credible support
• Reach vulnerable populations early
• Create identifiable villain
• Advocate simple solution
• Achieve widespread publicity
• Apply political pressure

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Why has this become an issue?
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There is a connection between people, food and
the environment because people say those factors
affect my health.
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Anti-Irradiation NGOs

• Public Citizen Critical Mass Energy Project
• Organic Consumers Association
• Center for Food Safety
• Food Water, Inc--defunct
• Local groups (when needed)

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Opposition to Irradiation

• Human health concerns
• Food quality
• Food safety
• Anti-technology

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Changing Tactics

• Previous opposition to irradiation companies
• Federal rules
• Address the issue on a national level

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New Tactics

• General move in NGO community to engage
  vulnerable populations.
• Targeting local organizations
• School boards kids are seen a vulnerable
  population
• In wake of USDA approval, stronger push for
  labeling
• Demand for notification

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Labeling

• Looks innocuous
• Wrap issue in idea of customer right to know
  and better information
• NGOs believe current label insufficient
• Is simple solution

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Labelingproblems

• Battle over text on label
• Label not informationlabel is used as warning.
• NGOs will not stop with labelinghaving labeled,
  they will call for removal

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California

• AB 1988 serves as good example of new tactic
• Serves as project lab for activist movement
• Can not be used as representative model

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Keys to resolution

• Always maintain your credibility
• Look for win/win scenarios
• Educate members/allies
• Inoculate them against activists
• Establish them as ambassadors
• Anticipate arguments
• Collaborate with the media

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