The term “Coalition” refers to a group of organisations or individuals who are working together towards a common goal. This can be a local community issue such as underage drinking, or a national issue such as electoral reform. A coalition can also include organisations such as health services, law enforcement, and education agencies. It can also include volunteers, lobbyists and citizens groups.
The first step in forming a coalition is identifying common goals. This is done by sharing information, exploring priorities and negotiating. It is often helpful to have a facilitator to guide this process.
All coalitions start as transactions. Partners join in exchange for self-interest. This is usually a verbal agreement. Stable coalitions develop trusting relationships over time. They do this by honouring the original transactional agreements and building personal relationships that go beyond those transactions.
Successful coalitions have clear decision making structures – this can be by consensus, majority or otherwise. They also have clear responsibilities for members. They communicate well and are open to feedback. They are able to identify and manage issues that will arise.
In order to be sustainable coalition negotiations must be aimed at finding compromise-based policies for the benefit of communities and residents. They should not be focused on what a particular party or individual can ‘get out of it’ in terms of positions and financial gain. The development of traditions or conventions – soft rules guiding coalition working – is also a key aspect of the sustainability of coalitions.