Lobbying, as a way to influence and inform governments, has been part of democracy
for at least two centuries, and remains a legitimate tool for influencing public policies.
However, it carries risks of undue influence. Lobbying in the 21st century has also
become increasingly complex, including new tools for influencing government, such
as social media, and a wide range of actors, such as NGOs, think tanks and foreign
governments. This report takes stock of the progress that countries have made in implementing
the OECD Principles for Transparency and Integrity in Lobbying. It reflects on new
challenges and risks related to the many ways special interest groups attempt to influence
public policies, and reviews tools adopted by governments to effectively safeguard
impartiality and fairness in the public decision-making process.
Lobbying can represent valid interests that inform decisions in the public interest, but, if unchecked, can distort policy by focusing on narrow, private interests More comprehensive rules are needed to ensure integrity in influencing public decisions.
Watch the video on the report.
BLOG ON THE REPORT
How do technological change, global competition for influence, and citizens' demands for more integrity & inclusiveness in policy-making shape lobbying in the 21st century? How can lobbying rules address these trends?
Read the OECD Forum Network piece on the report by Elsa Pilichowski, Director, Public Governance Directorate, OECD
LAUNCH CONFERENCE ON 20 MAY 2021 - WATCH THE RECORDINGS
Lobbying in the 21st Century: key trends and challenges
The role of lobbying in meeting global challenges: perspectives from four key policy areas
Addressing foreign influence in public decision making and electoral processes & Closing speeches