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The policy brief warns governments that force majeure is a 'double-edged sword' during the COVID-19 pandemic. While governments may use it to justify emergency measures, they must also face claims from companies unable to operate. The author recommends a case-by-case approach, avoiding general legal declarations, and using 'without prejudice' communications to mitigate future litigation risks in contractual and investor-state disputes.

The paper argues that civil society organisations (CSOs) should not dismiss parliaments as 'rubber stamps' but instead build strategic partnerships with individual members of parliament (MPs). It emphasizes the importance of understanding electoral systems to identify independent-minded MPs, providing high-quality non-partisan research to resource-poor legislators, and cultivating 'champions' within the governing party. The author highlights that credibility and public legitimacy—built through community rooting and financial transparency—are more valuable than funding when influencing policy. Practical guidance is provided on lobbying, media engagement, and monitoring MP performance through 'report cards' to drive accountability during elections.