In Ukraine, lobbying is gradually becoming a normal part of the democratic process. It allows businesses and civil society organizations to openly influence how decisions are made by the government.

The Law “On Lobbying” establishes clear rules of the game: who can lobby, what methods are permitted, and what penalties apply for violations. The goal is simple—to make this process transparent, fair, and one that works for the country’s development rather than for hidden interests. As of fall 2025, the greatest lobbying activity is concentrated in the areas of economic development, as well as in legal, financial, tax, and customs policies.

When we talk about lobbying, we mean influencing various regulatory and legal acts—the very documents that define the country’s rules and decisions. Lobbying activities can involve all stages of work on such acts: from their planning and drafting to amending or even repealing them. The main idea behind this process is to convey the position of the business community or the public to government authorities so that these interests are taken into account in public policy.

At the same time, the law clearly defines topics that cannot be lobbied for at all. These primarily include issues related to national security and emergencies. These include decisions on mobilization, the imposition of martial law or a state of emergency, the declaration of war or the conclusion of peace, the use of the Armed Forces, changes to Ukraine’s territory, the designation of environmental disaster zones, or decisions on amnesty. These areas are considered highly sensitive, and the state protects them from any private influence to avoid risks to the country’s sovereignty and security.

Lobbying Methods: From Communication to Public Campaigns 

Lobbying in Ukraine, as in the West, is based on fundamental principles—it must be lawful, transparent, professional, and ethical. The law explains in considerable detail exactly how decision-making can be influenced. First and foremost, this involves direct communication with officials or other decision-makers, during which a lobbyist conveys the position of their organization or client. In addition, various informational materials are widely used—analyses, studies, proposals, or simply explanatory documents—which can be distributed either directly or through the media or the Internet.

Participation in events and discussions related to a specific policy also plays an important role, as does, at times, organizing one’s own events or public campaigns to help draw attention to an issue. Lobbyists may invite government officials to discussions, conferences, or other forums where arguments can be presented to a wider audience. In general, the law permits the use of various methods of influence, provided they do not conflict with the Constitution or Ukrainian legislation. This allows interests to be represented openly and effectively, without stepping outside the bounds of the law.

Who is prohibited from lobbying?

To prevent abuse and conflicts of interest, the law imposes fairly strict restrictions on the group of people and organizations that are eligible to obtain lobbyist status. First and foremost, this applies to current public officials, as well as those who left office less than a year ago—obviously to prevent the use of official connections for private gain. Also barred are individuals with unexpunged criminal convictions or corruption-related offenses, as well as those whose legal capacity is restricted or who have not reached the age of majority.

A separate restriction applies to citizens and residents of the Russian Federation, as well as companies affiliated with or registered in that country. Similarly, entities associated with terrorist activities, individuals and organizations subject to sanctions, and those that do not comply with international anti-money laundering standards are prohibited from engaging in lobbying. The law also bars legal entities whose beneficial owners fall into any of these prohibited categories.

State bodies, local government bodies, public-law institutions, media outlets, political parties, religious organizations, and election candidates are also prohibited from engaging in lobbying. The restrictions also apply to companies that have been subject to criminal sanctions within the last five years. All of this creates safeguards that prevent lobbying from becoming a venue for manipulation or covert influence, ensuring it remains a civilized and controlled tool.

Liability for Violations: Fines and Bans

Violations of lobbying regulations in Ukraine are not limited to mere moral condemnation—they entail very specific administrative penalties. All fines are calculated based on the system of non-taxable minimum incomes, so even sanctions that seem minor at first glance can amount to significant sums (see table).

The most common violations involve concealing information, operating without proper registration, or attempting to influence officials in ways expressly prohibited by law. In such cases, fines are imposed, and sometimes even temporary bans on lobbying activities are imposed. In effect, the state is sending a clear message: lobbying is permitted, but only openly, transparently, and within the established rules. This is intended to deter those who might try to turn lobbying into a means of pressure or covert influence, while also safeguarding trust in the mechanism itself.

These sanctions underscore the importance of transparency and ethics in lobbying.

Lobbying in Ukraine, regulated by a special law, promotes a balance of interests in society but requires strict adherence to the rules. Experts note that the effective implementation of these regulations can strengthen trust in the government and stimulate economic development.