A demonstration is an event in which a large group of people gathers to show their support for a change in the law. It is an informal pressure for change, and includes rallies, strikes, and marches.

In order to be most effective, a large group needs to be present, thus showing the existence of a significant demand for change. A recent example of a large-scale demonstration is the rally on Perth’s Cottesloe Beach, in which an estimated 6,000 demonstrators expressed their disapproval of Western Australia’s “catch-and-kill shark policy”.¹ So far, this demonstration has not led to any legislative change, but has gained media and public attention.

Effectiveness of demonstrations

Strengths

• Can be very effective if there are many peaceful people taking part
• Communicate the views of a number of people at once
• Likely to gain media attention and raise awareness of the cause
• Can serve an educative purpose for the community, whom might otherwise be ignorant of the issue

Weaknesses

• If there are not many demonstrators, parliament may dismiss them as a vocal minority
• Can lead to aggression and violence, which virtually guarantees that parliament will not seriously consider the demand for change

See also:

Petitions

Media

1. ABC News, 2 Feb 2014, “WA shark cull: Thousands rally at Cottesloe Beach as catch-and-kill protests ramp up”, http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-02-01/shark-protests-wa-catch-and-kill-perth/5232480 ↩