social movements and political

Political parties must perform a multitude of pressing tasks in the political system, which often results in the exclusion of certain social interests. The Canadian electorate, therefore, has become disillusioned with political parties and social movements have emerged as key actors in the promotion of political change and alternative representation. The rise of social movements, beginning in the 1960?s, has forced political parties to address their issues and demands. The traditional Liberal and Conservative two …

…have resulted in party decline, social movements to some extent have helped in the creation of new minor parties that have had an impact on national politics. And thus, by forcing political parties to acknowledge all citizens and their issues, social movements have expanded the realm of a democratic government. Therefore, the way parties react and deal with social movements will determine whether it will beneficial or detrimental to their prominence in the political arena.