The practice of lobbying is widespread and is a legitimate part of the political process.

Done responsibly, lobbying leads to better legislation, rules and standards, increases stakeholder engagement in public life, and serves the public interest.  

Yet the practice is open to abuse and the media is full of stories of companies acting irresponsibly to promote their own interests ahead of those of society and the environment. The right to influence policy through lobbying is a privilege granted to companies and Civil Society Organisations and, like all privileges it can be withdrawn. 

We believe that responsible organisations will wish to sign up to robust standards to justify society’s trust in the matter. This Framework is intended to guide those wishing to take responsibility for themselves.

This Responsible Lobbying Framework is an important tool in voluntary self-regulation for any organisation involved in lobbying – whether public, private or in the third sector. It seeks to establish the principles and practical steps that organisations should take to ensure their lobbying is transparent, accountable, consistent and legitimate. It is offered on a free-to-use basis.  Organisations are invited to assess themselves or to adopt the framework into other accountability mechanisms.

Learn more about how it was developed.