On 27 November 2025, the European Parliament adopted an important decision aimed at increasing the transparency of lobbyists representing the interests of states or organizations outside the EU. The Parliament approved its position for negotiations with EU member states on a directive that will require mandatory registration of such activities and disclosure of their content. This step is intended to protect European policy from opaque external influence and to strengthen trust in the decision-making process.
The new rules cover a wide range of lobbying activities, including meetings with politicians, participation in consultations, preparation of policy documents, public information campaigns, and other methods of influencing decision-making in the EU. In this way, the directive encompasses all major mechanisms through which a third country can advance its interests at the level of European institutions.
The new rules may also apply to Ukrainian lobbyists, since Ukraine is considered a third country with respect to the EU. This means that any organizations or individuals acting on behalf of the Ukrainian state or Ukrainian organizations to influence EU policy and legislation will be required to register their activities and publicly disclose their content. This approach creates a transparent and legitimate mechanism for interaction between Ukrainian representatives and European institutions.
The European Parliament’s decision is a response to growing concerns about the influence of foreign states on EU policy. The new rules will make it possible to monitor the activities of third-country lobbyists, including those from Ukraine, and will enhance accountability. Experts note that this could strengthen trust in Ukrainian organizations and representatives who operate transparently and comply with the rules, while also protecting European institutions from opaque influence.
At the same time, implementing the directive introduces new administrative obligations. Ukrainian organizations and lobbyists operating in the EU will need to document meetings, campaigns, and other activities that fall under the definition of “lobbying.” The success of the directive will depend not only on the formal rules but also on the ability of national and European institutions to effectively monitor compliance and ensure open access to data. Ultimately, the new rules represent an important step toward transparency and accountability in lobbying activities, including for the Ukrainian segment.
