Authors:

Wagner Pralon Mancuso

Andréa Cristina Oliveira Gozetto

Abstract:

This article analyzes the potential of lobbying as a democratic instrument of representation of interest. On the one hand, the article highlights the positive contributions of lobbying activities to the democratic process. On the other hand, the article identifies some problems that lobbying activities can generate, in the light of the democratic value of political equality. The text also discusses the question of lobbying regulation, focusing on (i) the purposes of this measure, (ii) the factors which hinder its adoption in Brazil, and (iii) the set of initiatives that – together with lobbying regulation – could contribute to making lobbying become an effective democratic instrument of representation of interests.