EU Lobbying Expert Course

A 1.5-day, highly practical training on EU institutions, lobbying and how Brussels works, including a special guided visit to the European Parliament. Taught by former EU officials, newcomers to Brussels and those getting to know the EU public affairs scene will find this course extremely useful to understand both the “big picture” and the practical details.

Programme:

Day One

09:00
Introduction

09:30
Practical overview of Key EU Institutions & Agencies
• Special focus on lobbying the “decision-making triangle”:
European Commission, European Parliament, Council of Ministers
• Lesser known but vital bodies: the EU agencies
• Advisory, financial and consultative EU institutions

10.45
Coffee & networking break

11:00
EU Decision-Making: Timing and Best Practices of Advocacy
• EU legal and administrative procedures, Comitology
• Timeline, legislative schedules, key players
• Case study of a specific file: life-cycle, practical tips

12:30
Lunch – Special Guest: Senior Diplomat from an EU Permanent Representation

14:30
The EU & Brussels Media: Online, Offline and In Between
• How public affairs communication helps advocacy
• 7 tips to improve your communication with EU officials
• Case study of an email to EU officials: do’s and don’ts

15:45
Coffee & Networking break

16:00
Toolbox of a Public affairs practitioner
• Online information sources
• How to monitor EU legislation
• Media sources and tips & tricks

17:30
End of the 1st day

Day Two

09:00
Briefing the Simulation Exercise
• Participants are split into groups of 3 people
• A detailed background case study is provided
• Create an EU public affairs plan based on the acquired knowledge

09:40
Simulation Exercise: Workshop
• Teams work on their EU lobbying campaign
• Guidance by the trainer on specific issues

12:00
Presentation by the Teams: EU Lobby Campaign
• Group discussion on timing, methodology, procedures
• Specific, actionable tips for each participant
• Detailed feedback on the feasibility of the actions

12:50
Summary and Operational Conclusions

13:00
End of Seminar

Location

We are flexible to offer this course in Brussels or anywhere else in Europe based on your needs.

Maximum Participants: 15 participants.

Image credit: ppcd.gov.mt