In global health, policy drives change. Yet, in the policy arena, where decision-makers are pulled in multiple directions, being heard is now harder than ever.

Here is where a well planned communications and engagement strategy makes a difference. Organisations that spark momentum, frame issues in ways that resonate with decision-makers, and offer trusted support and resources are the ones that can cut through the noise and achieve progress.

In this post, we share some reflections from our journey, and we would love to hear your perspectives as well. To continue the conversation, feel free to reach out to our Global Health Lead, Marina Monzeglio, at  or on LinkedIn.

Building alliances that drive policy forward

Policy change doesn’t happen in isolation. While decision-makers are often your ultimate target, they operate in a broad ecosystem which includes NGOs, professional associations, patient groups, industry, scientists and media.

All these stakeholder groups can play a key role in shaping narratives, building the case for action, or mobilising momentum. Working together can provide the credibility and legitimacy needed to break through in this crowded landscape.

The Global Stroke Action Coalition, hosted by the World Stroke Organization, is a successful example of cross-sector engagement that Infinity Communications has the privilege of supporting. The first effort of this kind and scale on stroke, the Coalition brings together members from NGOs, patient associations, and industry. Members help shape priorities, amplify shared messages, and contribute expertise—from networks and technical knowledge, to insights into national or regional contexts. By acting together, the Coalition’s members have achieved a level of recognition and influence that wouldn’t have been possible alone.

Inspiring action with facts and stories

This year, in the lead up to the United Nations High-Level Meeting on Noncommunicable Diseases, we supported the Coalition to articulate policy recommendations and develop a policy brief and a social media campaign to reach decision-makers and inspire action.

By highlighting both the burden of stroke and the urgent need for attention and funding, the Coalition’s messaging strikes a careful balance between financial considerations and human stories.

From our broader experience as an agency, we have seen that combining hard data with personal stories makes the message far more compelling. Cost-effectiveness and budget impact catch policymakers’ attention, while stories from people with lived experience bring the data to life, making the issue tangible and urgent.

Turning connections into long-term impact

In this field, success requires sustained commitment over time. Work doesn’t stop once a Minister attends your event or you secure a meeting with a government representative. Following through and putting roadmaps for ongoing interaction in place is key.

Focus on meeting policymakers where they are, whether in high-level meetings, hearings, side events, creating multiple touchpoints. Equally important is timing: engage at moments that can make an impact, such as global or national milestones, or at key moments during budget and political cycles.

In our recent work, we have seen effective approaches for sustained engagement. These range from enrolling policymakers as “champions”, with clear asks and regular check-ins, to creating accountability mechanisms such as online platforms that track progress and achievements against government pledges.

Strategy and flexibility

When working in policy, a clear strategy is vital, but so is flexibility. Policy landscapes shift, new opportunities emerge, and windows of influence can open unexpectedly. As an advocate, you must stay alert, continuously refine and improve your approach, and seize opportunities as they arise.

The right mix of strategy, collaboration, and sustained engagement, can help organisations strengthen their policy efforts, and, ultimately, drive real change in people’s health and wellbeing.

Do you work in health policy and communications? We would love to hear your thoughts. Our Global Health Lead, Marina Monzeglio, is available at or on LinkedIn.