The term 'lobbyist' is not defined but refers to 'organisations and self-employed individuals engaged in EU policymaking and policy implementation'. The EU uses an activity-based definition ((i.e. whether an entity is a lobbyist depends on what the organisation does, and not on its legal status). Lobbying activities therefore cover 'all activities [...] carried out with the objective of directly or indirectly influencing the formulation or implementation of policy and the decision-making processes of the EU institutions, irrespective of the channel or medium of communication [...]'.

Back on 15 April 2014, the so-called Gualtieri report (AFCO Committee : Rapporteur Roberto Gualtiery, S&D, Italy) was adopted by plenary. The report reiterated the call for a mandatory register, asking the Commission to submit a proposal for a regulation by end-2016.

Problem of Legal Basis

Canada has over two decades of experience in administering legislation on lobbying. During this time, growing expectations for government transparency and integrity have resulted in lobbying remaining in the spotlight and on the political agenda. The Lobbyists Registration Act was Canada's initial federal legislation regarding the registration of lobbyists. It came into force in 1989. Since then, the legislation has been amended on a number of occasions. In 2008 the legislation was amended and renamed the Lobbying Act.

1. The employment of special advisers adds a political dimension to the advice and assistance available to Ministers while reinforcing the political impartiality of the permanent Civil Service by distinguishing the source of political advice and support.

In order to implement its Anti-Corruption Strategy, Ukraine is considering the draft and approval of a number of laws, in particular, on:

Almost 900 amendments have been drafted to the European Parliament’s position on the ongoing negotiations conducted by the Commission for a Trans-Atlantic Trade and Investment Partnership with the United States (TTIP). Although the European Parliament is not formally involved in negotiations, the European Commission is legally obliged to keep Parliament updated, and Parliament has the power to reject the trade deal once it has been finalised.

Large FIFA sponsors (Coca Cola Co., Visa Inc., McDonald's Corp) and others cannot risk tarnishing their reputation with even a whiff of wrongdoing. The balance between wanting a squeaky-clean image and getting access to soccer's huge global fan base presents a quandary for international brands: Sponsors expect their partners to be transparent and ethical. Sponsors do not want to be associated with alleged 'shady practices' and are increasingly asking right-owners tough questions on a range of compliance and corporate social responsibility (CSR) issues.

The U.S. Justice Department unsealed a 47-count indictment charging 14 world soccer figures, including officials of FIFA, with racketeering, wire fraud,  bribery, kickbacks, money laundering, money laundering conspiracies, undisclosed and illegal payments

Positive Steps in Reforms

The recent events in Ukraine have had a massive impact on business in the country. Companies are faced with many new risks, while at the same time encountering new opportunities. The staunch anti-corruption platform declared by Ukraine's President and government, following the EuroMaidan revolution, has provided a new approach for international and local businesses to deliver messages to Ukrainian authorities and lobby interests in a transparent and FCPA/UK bribery act compliant manner.