ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the development and nature of the European Union (EU) lobbying system. Pallis has documented the mobilization of maritime transport groups since the mid-1970s. He noted that the EU has been trying to develop a Common Maritime Transport Policy, the scope and depth of the policies has shifted from minimalist to an approach that considers comprehensive EU policies. As a result of this power shift to the EU level a variety of stakeholders has identified a new level of power, and has formed EU-level interest groups seeking to 'shoot where the ducks are'. The chapter discusses bureaucracy and the particular behavioural traits that modern bureaucracies exhibit. Anthony Downs formulated many hypotheses concerning bureaucratic behaviour. This chapter concludes by suggesting that lobbying in the EU is likely to remain pluralistic, unpredictable and favouring those actors who can mobilize ideas and knowledge in order to influence the framing of public policies.
