ABSTRACT
The task of policy-makers, in finding out objectively and systematically what works or does not work and developing the appropriate policy, is overwhelming. Local stakeholders have a lot to gain from influencing policy, but may have little or no opportunity to engage with decision-makers, or may lack capacity to exploit the opportunities at their disposal. For these people, their leaders could play a vital role in representing their opinions and interests. This chapter focuses primarily on the role of elected leaders, such as parliamentarians and councillors, as well as traditional leaders, in influencing policy and practice. The chapter considers the different types of leadership that an external agent may work with and presents examples of the strengths and weaknesses of these leaders in influencing different stages of the policy cycle.
