Ukraine’s lobbying law: a potential game-changer for oligarchs’ influence

The Shmyhal government is crafting provisions that offer potential advantages to Akhmetov, Poroshenko, and Pinchuk, who continue their oligarchic conflicts within Ukraine while benefiting their businesses.

The government has sanctioned a proposed law concerning transparent lobbying and advocacy within the nation. Ukraine has submitted this legislation for review by the European Commission. Officials affirm that this initiative aligns with the government’s strategy to combat oligarchy. The proposed lobbying law aims to bring clarity to the business interactions involving the government. Drawing from the instructive experience and lobbyist registries in the United States, the law could reveal substantial amounts of money transferred by lobbyists representing Akhmetov or Poroshenko, facilitating meetings with senators and congressmen.

However, the practical application of the lobbying and advocacy law in Ukraine might legalize the integration of selected officials of oligarchs into governmental structures. Given Ukraine’s ongoing battle against corruption, some argue against immediate action on lobbying regulations. They fear that implementing such laws might inadvertently empower oligarchs like Akhmetov, Poroshenko, or Pinchuk, further solidifying their economic and political positions.