LOBBYING OF NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS IN THE CONDITIONS OF DEMOCRATIC TRANSFORMATIONS: THE EXAMPLE OF THE VISEGRAD GROUP COUNTRIES

Abstract

The study is devoted to the analysis of lobbying by non-governmental organizations in the context of democratic transformations, with a focus on the Visegrad Group countries and practical implications for Ukraine. Lobbying is considered from the perspective of “exchange” (quid pro quo) and “information” approaches, where the latter acquires particular importance in the context of transformational democracies. In such systems, non-governmental organizations act not only as pressure groups, but as “actors shaping political decisions”, providing the state with expertise, analytics and decision-making tools. The concept of “legislative subsidy” emphasizes their role in strengthening the institutional capacity of the state through the provision of knowledge and support from political allies Particular attention is paid to the problem of lobbying transparency and its public perception, where identification with corrupt practices persists. This necessitates a clear distinction between commercial lobbying and civic advocacy. A comparative analysis of the Visegrad countries demonstrates different models of regulation: from a comprehensive transparency system in the Czech Republic to a partially institutionalized approach in Poland and the absence of systemic regulation in Slovakia and Hungary. Four main strategies of influence are identified: institutional, indirect, coalition and international lobbying, the effectiveness of which varies depending on the stage of democratic transformation. The generalization of experience allows us to formulate recommendations for Ukraine, in particular regarding the need for proportional regulation, the introduction of “influence traces” and ensuring the protection of civil space. It is emphasized that only under conditions of transparency and trust can lobbying function as a legitimate instrument of democratic governance. It is additionally substantiated that the role of non-governmental organizations in the political process goes beyond direct influence on norm-setting, encompassing shaping the public agenda, increasing the level of civic participation, and strengthening the democratic legitimacy of government institutions. In times of crisis or when formal channels of interaction are limited, it is the civil sector that can provide alternative mechanisms of influence through the mobilization of society and the use of international instruments for the protection of rights. This emphasizes the need to consider lobbying not only as a tool of influence, but as part of a broader ecosystem of democratic governance