Navigating the complex world of public affairs requires specialized expertise, especially when it comes to government relations and strategic communications. That’s where top government PR firms come in. These agencies help shape public perception, manage crises, and influence policy at the highest levels.
Below we’ve compiled a list of the 15 best government PR firms and agencies in the world, known for their proven track records, global reach, and powerful networks.
Whether you’re a policymaker, corporation, or NGO, these firms are essential partners in navigating today’s fast-paced political and regulatory landscape.
Government PR Firms and Agencies
1. Edelman
Location: New York, USA
Year Founded: 1952
No. of Employees: 5,001-10,000
Services: Strategic communications, public affairs, crisis management, digital marketing, and brand reputation
Industries Served: Various
Edelman is the world’s largest independent public relations firm, founded in 1952 and headquartered in Chicago. With a global presence in over 60 offices, Edelman provides strategic communications for corporations, nonprofits, and governments. Known for its data-driven insights and public trust research, Edelman supports government entities with crisis management, public affairs, and reputation strategy. The firm has advised on major global issues, from health campaigns to policy communications.
2. APCO Worldwide
Location: Washington, DC, USA
Year Founded: 1984
No. of Employees: 1,001-5,000
Services: Public affairs, strategic communications, stakeholder engagement, and crisis management
Industries Served: Various
APCO Worldwide is an independent global public affairs and strategic communications consultancy founded in 1984 by Margery Kraus. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., APCO operates over 30 offices worldwide, providing services to multinational corporations, governments, NGOs, and educational institutions. The firm specializes in public affairs, government relations, and strategic communication, offering services such as grassroots advocacy, direct lobbying, and strategic counsel to achieve impactful policy results. APCO's team includes former government officials, politicians, and ambassadors, enhancing its expertise in handling sensitive political and crisis management issues.
3. Burson
Location: New York, USA
Year Founded: 2024
No. of Employees: 6,000+
Services: Public affairs, reputation management, corporate communications, and crisis strategy
Industries Served: Various
Burson is a global communications agency formed in 2024 through the merger of BCW (Burson Cohn & Wolfe) and Hill & Knowlton, both part of WPP. Headquartered in New York City, the firm operates in 43 markets with more than 6,000 employees. Burson offers services in corporate and public affairs, brand marketing, and strategic advisory services. The agency integrates AI-powered insights and creative strategy to support clients—including government entities—in managing reputation and navigating complex communication challenges.
4. FGS Global
Location: New York, USA
Year Founded: 2021
No. of Employees: 1,001-5,000
Services: Strategic communications, public affairs, crisis and issues management, and financial communications
Industries Served: Various
FGS Global is a strategic advisory and communications consultancy formed in December 2021 through the merger of Finsbury Glover Hering and Sard Verbinnen & Co. Finsbury Glover Hering itself was established earlier that year by combining Finsbury, The Glover Park Group, and Hering Schuppener. Headquartered in New York City, FGS Global operates over 30 offices worldwide, including locations in Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, Boston, Chicago, San Francisco, Miami, and Houston. The firm offers services in corporate reputation, crisis management, government affairs, and financial communications, assisting clients—including government entities—in navigating complex stakeholder environments.
5. Brunswick Group
Location: London, UK
Year Founded: 1987
No. of Employees: 1,001-5,000
Services: Public affairs, crisis management, regulatory and public policy, and investor engagement
Industries Served: Various
Brunswick Group is a British strategic advisory firm specializing in critical issues and corporate relations. Founded in 1987 by Sir Alan Parker, it is headquartered in London and has grown organically to 27 offices across 18 countries. The firm’s Washington, D.C. office serves as its U.S. public affairs hub, focusing on business-critical issues intersecting with government. Brunswick advises clients on complex regulatory and public affairs challenges, including antitrust and competition investigations, crisis management, and litigation. Its team includes former government officials and policy experts, enhancing its capability to engage effectively with government stakeholders.
6. SKDK (SKDKnickerbocker)
Location: Washington, DC, USA
Year Founded: 2004
No. of Employees: 51-200
Services: Strategic communications, public affairs, crisis management, media relations, and digital strategy
Industries Served: Public affairs and political
SKDK is a leading public affairs and political consulting firm recognized for its influential work with Democratic leaders, advocacy groups, and government-focused campaigns. Formed through the merger of Squier Knapp Dunn and Knickerbocker Consulting, the firm has a strong presence in Washington, D.C., New York City, Los Angeles, and Albany. SKDK specializes in crisis communications, media strategy, and public affairs, making it a trusted advisor for navigating complex political landscapes and shaping public policy through strategic messaging.
7. Ruder Finn
Location: New York, USA
Year Founded: 1948
No. of Employees: 501-1,000
Services: Strategic communications, digital marketing, content creation
Industries Served: Various
Ruder Finn is one of the world's largest independent global communications and creative agencies, founded in 1948 by David Finn and Bill Ruder. The firm is headquartered in New York City and maintains a significant presence in China, with offices in Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. Ruder Finn offers services in public relations, digital marketing, and content creation across sectors such as healthcare, technology, and consumer brands . Its Washington, D.C. office focuses on public affairs and government relations, serving clients including Southwest Airlines.
8. Mercury Public Affairs
Location: New York, USA
Year Founded: 1999
No. of Employees: 51-200
Services: Government relations, international affairs, strategic communications, crisis management, digital influence, public opinion research, and political consulting
Industries Served: Government
Mercury Public Affairs is a high-stakes, bipartisan public strategy firm founded in 1999 by Kieran Mahoney and Kirill Goncharenko in New York City. The firm offers a comprehensive suite of services, including federal government relations, international affairs, digital influence, public opinion research, and media strategy. With more than 20 offices across the United States and a global presence, Mercury's team comprises former government officials, media experts, and political strategists, providing strategic counsel to governments, political parties, advocacy groups, and corporations.
9. Qorvis Communications
Location: Washington, DC, USA
Year Founded: 2000
No. of Employees: 51-200
Services: Communications, public affairs, geopolitical solutions, and market intelligence
Industries Served: Government, finance, energy, healthcare, and technology.
Qorvis Communications is a global strategic communications and advisory firm founded in 2000 and headquartered in Washington, D.C., with key offices in Geneva and Dubai. The firm specializes in public affairs, lobbying, government relations, and crisis and reputation management. Qorvis has led public diplomacy campaigns for over 20 sovereign nations, drawing on a team of former government officials and policy experts to engage effectively with global stakeholders and navigate complex geopolitical and regulatory environments.
10. Grayling
Location: London, UK
Year Founded: 1981
No. of Employees: 501-1,000
Services: Strategic communications, public affairs, crisis management, and digital marketing
Industries Served: Various
Grayling is a global communications agency founded in 1981 and headquartered in London. The firm operates over 30 offices worldwide, including more than 25 across Europe, and maintains an extensive affiliate network. Grayling specializes in public relations, corporate affairs, and public affairs, offering services such as government relations, crisis management, and digital advocacy. Its government relations and public affairs team provides strategic counsel to clients—including government entities—to achieve legislative outcomes and navigate complex political landscapes.
11. Kekst CNC
Location: Global
Year Founded: 2018
No. of Employees: 201-500
Services: Strategic communications, crisis management, and public affairs
Industries Served: Various
Kekst CNC is a global strategic communications firm with over 300 professionals across 14 offices, including New York, London, and Tokyo. A part of Publicis Groupe, the firm specializes in corporate reputation, crisis management, and public affairs. Kekst CNC advises clients on navigating regulatory challenges, managing sensitive issues, and engaging with policymakers. Its deep bench of expertise makes it a trusted partner for governments, corporations, and institutions facing complex, high-stakes communications environments across global markets.
12. Public Strategies Washington (PSW)
Location: Washington, DC, USA
Year Founded: 1991
No. of Employees: 11-50
Services: Government relations, strategic communications, coalition management, and public affairs
Industries Served: Tax policy, trade, healthcare, energy, transportation, and financial
Public Strategies Washington (PSW) is a premier full-service public affairs firm headquartered in Washington, D.C. Established in 1991, PSW specializes in government relations, strategic communications, and coalition management. The firm offers expertise in federal tax policy, trade, healthcare, transportation, energy, and financial services, providing clients with integrated strategies to navigate complex policy landscapes. PSW's team comprises seasoned professionals with extensive experience in federal policymaking and advocacy.
13. Teneo
Location: New York, USA
Year Founded: 2011
No. of Employees: 1,001-5,000
Services: Management consulting, financial advisory, risk advisory, people advisory, and strategic communications
Industries Served: Various
Teneo is a global CEO advisory firm founded in 2011 by Declan Kelly, Doug Band, and Paul Keary. Headquartered in New York City, the firm employs over 1,600 professionals across more than 40 offices worldwide. Teneo offers integrated services, including strategic communications, management consulting, financial advisory, and government affairs. Its government and public affairs division provides strategic counsel and tactical execution to help clients navigate complex political and regulatory landscapes.
14. Cambridge Global Advisors
Location: Washington DC, USA
Year Founded: 2013
No. of Employees: 11-50
Services: Strategic advisory services in cybersecurity, homeland security, strategic communications, and international affairs
Industries Served: Government agencies, non-profit organizations, and Fortune 500 companies.
Cambridge Global Advisors (CGA) is a bipartisan strategic advisory firm founded in 2013 and headquartered in Washington, D.C. As a certified Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB), CGA specializes in national security, cybersecurity, and public affairs. The firm offers services such as strategic communications, government relations, and project management to government agencies, non-profits, and Fortune 500 companies. CGA's team comprises former senior officials with extensive experience in federal agencies, enhancing its capacity to navigate complex policy landscapes.
15. Portland Communications
Location: London, UK
Year Founded: 2001
No. of Employees: 201-500
Services: Public affairs, government relations, media engagement, and crisis communications
Industries Served: Various
Portland Communications is a global strategic communications consultancy founded in 2001 by Tim Allan, a former adviser to Tony Blair. Headquartered in London, the firm operates offices in Washington, D.C., Doha, Nairobi, Singapore, Brussels, Paris, and Berlin. Portland specializes in public affairs, government relations, and strategic communications, offering services such as policy advocacy, media relations, and crisis management. The firm's team includes former government officials and policy experts, providing strategic counsel to governments, corporations, and non-profits to navigate complex political landscapes.
How Did We Pick These PR Firms?
Proven Track Record in Government Affairs
We prioritized firms with a demonstrated history of successfully managing public affairs, government relations, and regulatory communications. These firms have led high-stakes campaigns, influenced public policy, and navigated complex political environments with measurable results.
Global and Regional Reach
Our list includes both globally recognized agencies and regionally influential firms. We focused on those with established offices or influence in key political and economic hubs such as Washington D.C., Brussels, London, and beyond—ensuring they understand local dynamics while operating on a global scale.
Reputation and Industry Recognition
Reputation matters in public relations. We considered firms regularly featured in trusted rankings, including PRovoke Media and O’Dwyer’s, as well as those recognized for innovation and leadership in government communications. Their standing among clients and industry peers speaks volumes.
Services and Specializations
We evaluated each firm’s core competencies, including public affairs, crisis management, lobbying, digital advocacy, and media relations. The selected firms offer tailored services specifically suited for clients working with or within government sectors.
Client Portfolio and Case Studies
A strong client roster was another key metric. We analyzed each firm’s past and current partnerships with government agencies, NGOs, Fortune 500 companies, and international coalitions. Case studies that demonstrate strategic thinking, transparency, and tangible outcomes were also heavily weighted.
How to Choose the Right PR Firm for Your Business
Define Your Goals and Challenges
Before choosing a PR firm, get crystal clear on your objectives. Are you trying to shape public opinion, gain government support, manage a crisis, or navigate policy changes? Understanding your specific needs will help match you with a firm that excels in that area.
Assess Their Government Expertise
Not all PR firms specialize in public affairs. If you're operating in a regulated industry or need help with lobbying, choose a firm with deep knowledge of governmental processes, policy advocacy, and legislative strategy.
Evaluate Industry Experience
Look for agencies that have worked within your industry—whether healthcare, energy, defense, or technology. Familiarity with sector-specific regulations and stakeholders ensures more effective messaging and faster execution.
Review Case Studies and Results
Ask for examples of similar campaigns and their outcomes. A reputable firm should be able to demonstrate past successes and show how they measure ROI through media impact, stakeholder engagement, or policy wins.
Consider Cultural Fit and Communication Style
Chemistry matters. You’ll be working closely with your PR team, so ensure their communication style aligns with yours. Look for transparency, responsiveness, and a collaborative spirit.
