So how to solve this dilemma? In our opinion, there is a middle path that can be taken. Expressive protests still need to be carried out, because media coverage can make more citizens finally understand that there is a situation that must be changed. However, expressive protests must always be accompanied by persuasion campaigns to gather public support as well as policy advocacy - if this is possible.
This does not mean that these three things must be done simultaneously by one organization. On the other hand, dividing tasks is very important because those who "get" the role of being protestors will most likely never be invited for their input by the authorities. Apart from that, organizations whose role is to invite citizens to support the change agenda cannot take extreme action if they want to be effective. Dividing tasks will "surround" the issue from all sides and make the opportunity for a greater change.
When we talk about persuasion, the main target is ordinary people who do not (or we hope, do not yet) care as much as activists about issues. This indifference may exist because they don't understand, don't feel the need to understand, or there is no reason to force them to understand. Another approach that we can take is a campaign that is persuasive and not patronizing. This will be very effective in avoiding resistance from parts of society who tend to be apathetic towards change.
For these people, we can use an “interrupt” mode of communication when we reach out to them for the first time. The “interruption” mode of communication functions like commercial product advertising, where the public who have never received exposure to the issue are “exposed” in the public space.
However, don't expect that those who previously didn't care will immediately become fully involved. There is no instant solution to increase understanding and awareness. The key to all of this is consistent and ongoing communication.
In line with this, when initially concerned citizens appear willing to become more involved, activists in civil society organizations must be ready to accommodate and channel their energy by providing various forms of involvement, starting from the "light class" such as distributing content or signing petitions, “Welterweight” is like donating money or time, to “heavyweight” is like joining a demonstration. Don't let the momentum you have worked so hard to build disappear.
Ultimately, the key to resolving this dilemma is the coordination of change drivers carrying out protest, persuasion and advocacy on their respective fronts.