Lobbying as a way to economic recovery in Ukraine: Kateryna Odarchenko, CEO and co-founder of LOBBY CLUB, on the challenges of war

The event, organised by LOBBY CLUB in cooperation with SIC GROUP and with the participation of the Ukrainian and International Associations of Lobbyists and GR Professionals, was dedicated to discussing the challenges and prospects of lobbying activities in the context of war and post-war reconstruction of the country. The forum was also a reaction to the adoption of the new Lobbying Law, which is designed to promote transparent interaction between business and government, increase Ukraine's investment attractiveness and fight corruption.

The Lobbying Law opens up new opportunities for Ukrainian businesses and international investors by providing clear and transparent rules of the game for all market participants. This is extremely important in the context of Ukraine's economic recovery, especially in times of war. The forum brought together experts from various industries to discuss how lobbying can become an effective tool for the country's development, attracting international resources and rebuilding the economy. The founders of LOBBY CLUB, Kateryna Odarchenko and Serhii  Kolisnyk, spoke at the panel discussion, emphasising the importance of lobbying in the current economic and political context.

Підписуйтеcь на наш Telegram-канал Lenta.UA - ЄДИНІ незалежні новини про події в Україні та світі

‘In today's war conditions, lobbying has become not just a means of influencing politics, but also a necessary mechanism for economic recovery and attracting international resources,’ said Odarchenko. She emphasised that the war has radically changed the economic situation in Ukraine, creating new challenges for business and the state. Lobbying has now become an important tool for coordinating actions, attracting international assistance and ensuring transparency in decision-making.

The impact of war on lobbying activities

Kateryna Odarchenko emphasised that Ukrainian companies are facing numerous challenges due to the war: lack of access to finance, difficulties in doing business and unpredictable political decisions. In this context, lobbying has become critical for businesses to maintain their influence and flexibility. ‘We see how approaches to doing business have changed during the war. Lobbying helps companies adapt to new conditions and interact more effectively with government agencies to ensure sustainable development,’ she added.

According to Odarchenko, lobbying plays a crucial role in rebuilding the economy after the war. ‘Government agencies and business should work together to speed up decision-making that will help stabilise the economy and stimulate its development,’ she said. Odarchenko emphasised that lobbying has now become not only a means of influencing policy, but also a strategic mechanism for attracting foreign investment and resources needed to rebuild the country's infrastructure.

Attracting international investors

Kateryna Odarchenko also emphasised that international investors are interested in helping Ukraine, but that it is necessary to create the right conditions for doing business. ‘International investors are monitoring the situation in Ukraine and are ready to invest in its recovery. But this requires clear and transparent management and control mechanisms,’ she stressed. According to her, Ukrainian companies should actively work to represent their interests at international forums and platforms, using lobbying to attract support from foreign governments, international organisations and private investors.

‘We already see positive examples of how foreign investors are ready to invest in infrastructure rehabilitation projects and support for small and medium-sized businesses. But to do this, businesses need to actively lobby for their interests in the international arena,’ Odarchenko stressed.

Transparency of lobbying processes

Kateryna Odarchenko paid special attention to the issue of transparency of lobbying activities. She emphasised that lobbying in Ukraine should be fully transparent and regulated to ensure the trust of international partners. ‘Transparent lobbying processes will help to avoid corruption risks and create a level playing field for all market participants,’ she said. According to her, only the legitimisation of lobbying activities through the adoption of relevant laws and the introduction of transparent procedures will help Ukraine strengthen its position in the international arena and attract more investment in strategic sectors.

‘Transparency is a key factor in building trust in Ukrainian institutions on the part of international partners. Legitimising lobbying through laws and regulations will help avoid corruption risks and create conditions for attracting long-term investments,’ Odarchenko added. She stressed that transparency is a key condition for implementing strategic projects and attracting international assistance for Ukraine's reconstruction.

Serhii Kolisnyk supported Odarchenko's position, emphasising the importance of ethics and responsibility in lobbying. ‘Lobbying should not be perceived only as a shadowy activity, it is a legitimate tool that should operate under clear rules that meet international standards. Transparent lobbying mechanisms are essential for attracting investment and building trust between business and the state,’ Kolisnyk said. He added that in the world, especially in times of war, it is important to act according to high ethical standards. ‘The international community is watching very closely how Ukraine manages its economic processes. We need a stable and transparent lobbying structure that will leave no doubt about the integrity of this process,’ said Kolisnyk.

Lobbying as a tool for rebuilding the country

Kateryna Odarchenko concluded her speech by summarising that lobbying plays a key role in the recovery of Ukraine's economy after the war. ‘Lobbying has become not only a tool for business, but also a strategic mechanism for rebuilding the country. It is a way to attract investment, which helps to ensure stability and support from international partners,’ she stressed.

Odarchenko emphasised that Ukrainian business should make more active use of lobbying to represent its interests in the international arena and help the government make important economic decisions. ‘Lobbying initiatives should be not only national, but also international, so that we can attract more resources and support for the country's reconstruction,’ she added.

Opportunities for international networking in Washington, DC, ISA

The LOBBY CLUB team and SIC GROUP are pleased to offer a unique opportunity to attend two prestigious events in Washington, DC: a business forum and a gala dinner. This trip is an excellent opportunity to establish international relations, exchange experience and expand professional horizons, opening up new prospects for business and international cooperation. For more information, please contact: +380 67 695 59 58 or contact@lobbyclub.info

Organiser: LOBBY CLUB, SIC GROUP, Ukrainian and International Associations of Lobbyists and GR Professionals.

LOBBY CLUB, modelled on the leading lobbying clubs of the USA and the UK, is a unique platform for meetings of influential people in business, politics and society. It is a place that provides its members with access to lobbying solutions, legal support and facilitates networking with opinion leaders at the international level. With offices in Washington and Kyiv, LOBBY CLUB actively participates in global processes, interacts with government officials from different countries and develops strategies for key reforms. Club members can participate in exclusive events that facilitate the exchange of ideas and strengthen professional relationships, as well as support social initiatives. 

Link to the LOBBY CLUB website: https://lobbyclub.org/

The Ukrainian Association of GR Professionals and Lobbyists, together with the International Association, which brings together leading experts from the US, UK and Europe, are actively working to develop the professional community. Over the years, the association has held more than 10 large-scale events, including three International GR Forums aimed at sharing experience and discussing topical issues in the field of public relations. It serves as a platform for dialogue between professionals, governments and parliaments, promoting the development of regulatory policy and engagement in solving the most important social challenges.

Link to the Lobby Club website: https://grukraine.com.ua/