On the issue of functions and dysfunctions of lobbying

Current article is devoted to the analysis of the functions and dysfunctions of lobbying. Such analysis is especially relevant in the light of ongoing debate in Russia and across the world regarding the nature of lobbying, what place this institution belong to in the political system, and how to avoid its negative aspects. The author strives to give a balanced assessment of the advantages and disadvantages of the institution of lobbying, its role in the political process, as well as possible ways to level out the negative aspects of this phenomenon. The author concludes that the contradictions between the functions and dysfunctions of lobbying were inherent in its nature. Having emerged from the evolution of socio-political demands of certain social groups, lobbying never institutionalized in the same way as political parties or parliaments. At the same time, it has become an important channel of communication between society and the state, an institution through which the articulation and aggregation of interests, group and public integration occurs, and the current agenda is set. At the same time, the evolution of of lobbying is constantly accompanied by a number of dysfunctions. The essence of dysfunction lies in the initially informal and shadow nature of this sphere. Lobbying does not equal corruption, however, due to its closeness, lack of accountability and informal nature, it contains the risks of corrupt relationships, varying from one society to another depending on the norms and traditions of interaction between organized groups and the state. In addition, the enormous and ever-increasing influence of interest groups, especially those representing the business sector, leads to disproportionate protection of private interests for the sake of public ones. The solution to these contradictions can only be facilitated by a balanced state policy aimed at building a mechanism for promoting and coordinating group interests that would primarily meet the public needs and interests.