A lobby register records interactions between government officials and those who seek to influence them, but defining who qualifies as an interest representative and which government officials are included presents challenges. Such registers aim to provide transparency regarding who is attempting to influence policy decisions.

Despite ministers already maintaining public agendas, a lobby register is still deemed necessary due to the incomplete and poorly maintained nature of these agendas. A lobby register would capture not only appointments but also details about the lobbying organizations themselves.

While a majority in the House of Representatives seems to support a lobby register, Minister Uitermark’s reluctance remains a point of contention, especially considering the register was a key component of an initiative memorandum co-authored by her former party leader. Uitermark suggests improving existing instruments first, but critics point to the lack of progress in this area.

Several countries and even municipalities have implemented lobby registers. Ireland, France, Germany, and the European Union have functioning lobby registers that track appointments, organizational objectives, lobbyists’ names, budgets, funding, and subjects discussed. Rotterdam has recently introduced a register that includes top civil servants.

However, the effectiveness of a lobby register in fully revealing policy influence is debatable. Informal lobbying through personal connections and other channels like social media, research, lawsuits, and demonstrations cannot be easily captured.

A register is just one component of a broader system of checks and balances. This system should also include transparent ministerial agendas, the abolition of lobby passes for parliamentarians, oversight of severance pay for departing politicians, regulation of party and campaign finances, and restrictions on former ministers’ lobbying activities.

Some Members of Parliament advocate for their own lobby register. D66 Member of Parliament Joost Sneller exemplified this by publishing his appointments for a year, but ceased due to the time-consuming nature and lack of institutional support. Strengthening parliamentary groups is crucial to reduce their reliance on external (lobbying) information.