What Next for Brussels' Lobbyists?

Lobbyists are constantly influenced by the
environment they are operating in. Changes in this
environment thus impact lobbyists targets,
strategies and methods. The (currently on-hold)
Lisbon or Reform Treaty aims to substantively
increase the legislative competences of the European
Parliament. While this will affect the institutional
characteristics of the Parliament itself, it will
moreover leave lobbyists targeting the institution
with altered circumstances they have to adapt to.
Increasing competition, new opportunities, changed
timing and alternative contact persons are some of
the major aspects that lobbyists will have to respond
to if they wish to maintain their stance in possibly
influencing European policy-making. While all
interest groups have to step up their game, resource
differences may suggest distinct ways of adaptation
for public and business interests. Based on empirical
research, this thesis tries to give advice to
lobbyists on what to expect in the future and how to
cope with potentially arising challenges.

Autorentext
Katharina Derschewsky holds a BA and a BSc in Public Administration (special emphasis European Studies) from the Universities of Münster, Germany and Twente, The Netherlands. She is currently studying Public Affairs and Lobbying MSc at Brunel University, West London and pursues a career in Public Affairs.

Klappentext
Lobbyists are constantly influenced by the environment they are operating in. Changes in this environment thus impact lobbyists' targets, strategies and methods. The (currently on-hold) Lisbon or Reform Treaty aims to substantively increase the legislative competences of the European Parliament. While this will affect the institutional characteristics of the Parliament itself, it will moreover leave lobbyists targeting the institution with altered circumstances they have to adapt to. Increasing competition, new opportunities, changed timing and alternative contact persons are some of the major aspects that lobbyists will have to respond to if they wish to maintain their stance in possibly influencing European policy-making. While all interest groups have to step up their game, resource differences may suggest distinct ways of adaptation for public and business interests. Based on empirical research, this thesis tries to give advice to lobbyists on what to expect in the future and how to cope with potentially arising challenges.