ABSTRACT
Climate and energy policy is among the most intriguing public policies in Central and Eastern Europe. The post-communist states differed not only in terms of their preexisting energy mixes but also in various aspects of policy-making, including civil society engagement and mobilization. Yet, they also share some similarities, for example, a legacy of environmental neglect and highly inefficient energy usage, limited deposits of natural resources, and increasing energy competition and prices. The chapter explores the ways in which green advocacy groups gain access to the policy-making process in the Czech Republic, Hungary, and Slovenia as compared to other organized interests operating in climate and energy policy. The authors explain patterns of access to the two types of executive bodies: governing parties and regulatory authorities. Taking a resource exchange perspective, they argue that access is determined by the match of supply and demand of resources, while also examining additional factors, such as various types of provided expertise and selected aspects of professionalization and financial resources.
