Transparent Lobbying in Central and Eastern European Countries

Abstract

This chapter offers an insight into the development of access to lobbying activities and its regulation in the context of the democratization process after the fall of communism in Central and Eastern Europe. Difficulties accompanying a resurgence of civil society in the region are linked with historical background. After a brief presentation of the development and current state of lobbying regulation in these countries, attention is focused on the Visegrad Four countries, extended to Slovenia and Austria. A detailed evaluation of transparency in lobbying at the level of specific measures according to the catalogue of transparent lobbying is provided. Consequently, these measures are evaluated by cost-benefit analysis based on Center for Public Integrity Index and Cost Indicator Index.