Investigation into Key Elements of Transparent Lobbying

Abstract

Lobbying is a legitimate way of interest representation in democracy. Although the number of countries introducing rules on lobbying activity is increasing, there are many doubts about the efficiency of measures introduced in terms of nontransparent lobbying activities and unfair forms of influence. The paper investigates the main approaches, elements and measures recommended and implemented by countries and international organizations in order to increase the transparency of lobbying practice in the decision-making process and proposes a basic set (catalogue) of key measures. It argues that a complex approach combining lobbying rules and many other supportive and linked measures is needed in order to extend transparent lobbying and decision-making. The article contributes to the discussion on the main theoretical issues and problems that arise in terms of transparent lobbying and proposes a catalogue of basic measures necessary to evaluate the transparency of lobbying in a broader and more detailed way in future research.