Opposition Studies

The Opposition Studies Forum is a new research group, dedicated to the study of political opposition in the UK and other democratic political systems. 

Whilst the study of government is a well-established academic field, there is nothing like a comparable body of specific research on political opposition.  This is a crucial research gap which we aim to fill. 

Opposition matters for many reasons - any political party entering government will have spent a considerable time in opposition, forming their policy programme and making preparations for assuming office.  How they conduct this process and how successful they are during this period can therefore have a major effect on the government of a country.  Equally, in a democracy the opposition plays a vital role of scrutiny and agenda-setting, holding the government of the day to account.  How well they do this is a hugely important democratic issue.  Finally there is the raw political issue of how opposition parties win power, and just as importantly, why some do not. 

We aim to examine all these issues, collecting existing research sources and materials, and commisioning new research.  Our objective is to increase understanding of the role of opposition in political systems, and encourage further study of its impact.  We will also look to provide advice and guidance on the subject to academics and political practitioners alike.

If you are interested in receiving information on our work, please email info@oppositionstudies.com

News: 13th January 2010                                                    

Charles Kennedy joins OSF

We are pleased to announce that Charles Kennedy has joined the Forum as our third Hon. President, joining Michael Howard and Neil Kinnock.  The announcement was made at our New Year reception, where we launched our 2010 Events series.  See news