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Transparency International Latvia (Sabiedrība par atklātību – Delna)

is pleased to invite you to a non-formal discussion

LOBBYING IS LIKE SEX

Friday, May 10, 2019
19:00 – 20:30
SPIIKIIZI bar, Kr.Valdemāra iela 17a, Riga

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Speakers:

• Sergejus Muravjovas, Executive Director at Transparency International Lithuania
• Vladlens Kovaļevs, Managing Partner at VA Government

The main goal of the event is to discuss the needs and ways for improving transparency of interaction between interest representatives and decision makers.

Recently Lithuanian parliamentarians have become more active in publishing their meetings with registered lobbyists, business and civil society representatives. This change has come despite the fact that the Law on Lobbying, introduced in 2001 and revamped in 2017, arguably needs further major improvements. Lithuania is one of eight EU countries with lobbying legislation, as well as a mandatory lobbying register, which was set up for lobbyists to declare what interests they pursue and on behalf of which beneficiaries.

Despite several attempts to regulate lobbying since 2008, there are still deficiencies in how lobbying is defined and how lobbyists operate in Latvia. Weak controls on lobbying means that powerful interest groups can influence laws and policies, and can do so without the public being fully aware of who is influencing government decision making. Should Latvia follow in Lithuania’s example?

This event is free of charge. Please arrive early as places are limited.

The language of the event will be English.

More information: Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/events/2657982670942167/?notif_t=plan_user_joined&notif_id=1557172118264644

Recent publications on lobbying transparency:

• Blog article by Transparency International Latvia/Delna “Will Latvia finally introduce long-awaited lobbying regulations?”, 03.04.2019. Authors: Liene Gātere, Antonio Greco.
• A report by PROVIDUS “12. Saeimas padomi 13. Saeimas jaunajiem deputātiem”, 2018. Authors: Sintija Tarasova, Iveta Kažoka.
• Research report by Transparency International Latvia/Delna “Lobēšanas atklātība Latvijā”, 2015. Author: Agnese Alksne.
• International standards for lobbying regulation. Authors: Transparency International, Access Info Europe, SunlightFoundation, Open Knowledge.

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