A lobby register aims to increase transparency by recording interactions between government officials and interest representatives. However, defining who qualifies as an interest representative and which government individuals are included presents immediate challenges.

Several EU countries, including Ireland, France, and Germany, have implemented functioning lobby registers that track meetings, organizational goals, lobbyist information, budgets, funding sources, and relevant subjects. The municipality of Rotterdam recently introduced a lobby register covering appointments of the mayor, aldermen, and high-ranking civil servants.

While a majority in the House of Representatives appears to support a lobby register, Minister Uitermark has expressed reservations, suggesting improvements to existing instruments like agendas and policy compasses first. Concerns exist about the effectiveness of registers due to the prevalence of informal lobbying through networks and various channels, such as social media and research.

A lobby register is considered one component of a larger system of control mechanisms, including transparent agendas, restrictions on lobbying by former officials, and oversight of party financing. Some advocate for a lobby register for members of parliament as well, to ensure accountability and limit undue influence.