Lobbying in Middle East Lobbying in the Middle East is not as yet wellestablished. This is mainly because of lack of Western style liberal democracies, which is the main environment in which commercial lobbying has traditionally flourished. Fully-fledged democracy in the Middle East is largely absent – although elections do take place throughout the region. Most Middle Eastern states are either one party states, theocracies, or absolute monarchies.
• Another reason why commercial lobbying has yet to take off in the region is that Middle Eastern societies tend to be complex. Family and clan relationships can be decades or even centuries old. Even the most experienced Western lobbyist might struggle to make an impact in a region where relationships are based on history and tradition, rather than the imperatives of commerce and democracy.
United Arab Emirates (UAE) • The UAE is a federation of independently ruled states. Seven absolute monarchies, operated by oilrich ruling families, have joined together to create a powerful economic region which co-operates where common interests arise, but which compete where national self-interest is at play. The UAE is, in effect, the EU of the Gulf. • The Ruler of Abu Dhabi is the president of the UAE, and the Ruler of Dubai is its prime minister. These two Rulers are often cited as the two most powerful regional players.
There is lobbying or public affairs in Dubai or the UAE. • Where there is government – and where there is wealth – there is lobbying, and the UAE, the Gulf and the Middle East are not exceptions to this rule. Lobbying in the Middle East is a slower and perhaps more subtle (искусный) version of the art which is practiced in the UK, US and EU. • Dubai City is leading the economic and architectural transformation of the Gulf.
• Lobbying in the sphere of oil is also present through organisations such as OPEC, and the Emirates are actively engaged in public affairs activity in Europe and the United States as a result of hugely increased activity by Middle Eastern Sovereign Wealth Funds. Middle Eastern interests are actively promoted in the West by public affairs professionals and consultancies. • Dubai is now a regional media hub (центр), and the center of the communications industry in the Middle East and the Gulf. As lobbying activity takes root and continues to grow in the region, Dubai is likely to become the public affairs (as it already is the PR) base for multinational firms.
Actions of Western lobbyist in the East • Establish and cultivate both personal and institutional relationships with stakeholders and influencers. This process crucially includes developing trust and confidence between the parties concerned. • Make use of stakeholder mapping: identify key stakeholders and influencers for each issue of concern, and develop an understanding and appreciation of the agendas and relations among stakeholder groups and individuals. – Classify by business impact, support/hostility, issues of shared interest, flexibility, etc.
• Develop multi-level engagement (встреча) with influencers at all levels: – With relevant government officials – Business forums or the like – Through home country commercial delegations – Indirect through third-party advocates – Joint research projects. – Trade association roundtables and other industry events;
• Incorporate media relations into a public affairs strategy and program, and connect with media on different platforms – News releases, exclusive executive interviews, tours, roundtables/workshops – Informal gatherings, media lunches, teas, receptions. • Be polite and not straightforward. Try to establish close private relations with stakeholders because in the East private relations are on the 1 st place (unlike with the West where business in on the 1 st place).
• Recognize and appreciate differences in cultures and practices among and within Asian countries. But also realize that some strategies and tactics may be applied across cultures and countries: be wary (осторожный) of admonitions (предупреждение)that “we can’t do this in our country. ” – be respectful for local traditions, religious views.
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Lecture_20_Lobbying_in_Middle_East.pptx