On Thursday, the Internal Market and Consumer Protection committee adopted their position on new transparency requirements for interest representation activities conducted by non-EU countries. The directive aims to address the growing cross-border nature of lobbying and potential foreign influence in democratic processes.

MEPs refined the Commission’s original proposal by introducing clearer definitions and safeguards against the stigmatisation of legitimate engagement or financial support provided to entities covered by the rules.

Type of activities covered

The rules apply to interest representation activities (provided against payment or other kinds of remuneration) aimed at influencing policy, legislation or decision-making in the EU. This can include organising or participating in meetings and conferences, contributing to consultations or hearings, communications campaigns (including the use of influencers on social media), preparing policy papers, proposing draft…