OAFP 8155 - Shaping Policy: Theory and Practice of Lobbying

Who wields power in policy-making, and how do they leverage it? This course provides a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms and strategies employed in lobbying and advocacy within Europe and beyond. Through an exploration of theoretical frameworks, case studies, and practical exercises, students will learn how various stakeholders, including businesses, civic groups, and public sector entities, influence policy-making processes. Key topics include the regulatory environment of the EU and beyond, comparative approaches to lobbying across different jurisdictions, and the impact of digital transformation on lobbying strategies. By the end of the course, students will be equipped with the knowledge to critically assess contemporary lobbying trends, understand the importance of trust and reputation, and navigate the evolving landscape of advocacy in a global context.

Gianluca SGUEO

Séminaire

English

None

Autumn 2024-2025

Students will be evaluated on the basis of their performance in three exercices:
- Assignment 1 (Research Paper, 50% of the final grade): The research paper is due at the end of the course and consists of a comprehensive analysis of a case study related to a number of key issues debated in class throughout the course.
- Assignment 2 (Group presentations, 30% of the final grade): this assignment will take place between class 3 and class 11 (with the exception of workshop classes). The calendar of the presentations, the composition of each group, the assigned case studies as well as other useful information (e.g. essential bibliography) will be communicated in due time (class 1 or 2 and/or one week before each presentation). Group presentations will focus on a case-study and a leading question (students will be informed about the case and the leading question one week prior to the presentation). Each presentation will last approximately 15 minutes (10 minutes presentation + 5 minutes Q&A). NB. This is a collective assignment: students will not be evaluated individually, but will be graded according to the group performance. It is therefore key to join efforts and cooperate among team-members.
- Assignment 3 (Workshop, 20% of the final grade): During the coure students will be involved in workshop sessions. Students (both individually or divided into groups) will be trained in using AI tools to build plausible lobbying strategies. NB. This is both a collective and an individual assignment: students will be evaluated for their individual contribution to the workshop activities as well as for their active contribution to class exercises.