European Union lobbying. Changes in the arena

Book abstract:

This book draws on numerous case studies to demonstrate the impact of lobbying campaigns in Europe and their influence on decision-making. The contributors realise, to use just two examples, that company lobbying has been altered with the rise of cross-border mergers and that the balance of power has shifted between the EU and important world concerns like the World Trade Organisation (WTO). The book attempts to account for these changes, as well as those concerning the growing role of regional players and non-governmental organisations.

The book's introduction deals with changes in what is described as the 'lobbying arena', described as that space 'in which a lobbying campaign is played out'. Part one, on E-Europe Cases, contains two contributions: one on an alternative regulatory model, and one on the promotion of consumer confidence in e-commerce, with a discussion of the 'Brussels Regulation'. Part two, on Environmental Cases, incorporates three articles. The first of these is on Lafarge and global warming, the second on European and Global Climate Policy in the WWF, and the third on the problem of clean air and car emissions. In part three, exploring applicant country cases, there is work on EU accession and the 'Acquis' (Nordic monopolies), as well as on the problem of Slovenia and the EU. Part four investigates global and regional cases, including research on animal welfare, Japanese lobbying in the EU, the problem of Chiquita and bananas, and the future in steel regions. Part five interrogates single market cases and part six concludes with an analysis of corporate social responsibility and changes in the lobbying arena, along with a discussion of the lessons learned from lobbying cases.