EPACA Best in Brussels: Foreword 2025
The current climate in EU public affairs
As Brussels moves into a new institutional cycle, the public affairs environment continues to evolve, shaped not only by internal transitions but also by external pressures. One significant development is the increasing complexity of the relationship between the EU and the United States. While this dynamic might encourage greater demand for engagement from American businesses and stakeholders, it has also introduced new challenges. Representing the interests of European and U.S. companies, whether in-house or through consultancies, now requires navigating a more cautious environment in Brussels, reflecting broader discussions on strategic autonomy and international economic stability. Now more than ever, the Brussels public affairs industry can play a key role in ensuring constructive and transparent dialogue.
At the same time, institutional integrity remains under scrutiny. New allegations of corruption involving Members of the European Parliament have once again heightened public demand for accountability and reform. Such scandals undermine the perception and legitimacy of lobbying in Brussels and call for more effective measures to combat misconduct by EU officials. New measures, however, risk unintentionally restricting legitimate, transparent lobbying efforts. There is a clear need for reform that draws a distinct line between unlawful and unethical practices and the vital role of interest representation in democratic policymaking.
Promoting transparency, defending public affairs, and raising standards
EPACA’s mission remains unchanged: to support ethical, transparent, and professional lobbying in the EU. Across various regulatory initiatives, we advocate for a level playing field where all types of interest representatives are treated equally, access to information is fair and open, and disclosure rules are harmonised and proportionate. We remain concerned that overly burdensome rules could reduce democratic access to decision-makers or duplicate existing obligations, particularly where the Transparency Register already offers sufficient accountability.
Ethics as a core principle of the profession
Being an EPACA member means upholding the highest standards of professionalism and ethical conduct. Our Code of Conduct, recognised by both the European Commission and Parliament, continues to guide our members in responsible interest representation.
We continue to work closely with the Transparency Register Secretariat and other institutions to ensure our members’ perspectives are reflected in the development of sound, workable frameworks. Our focus is on making transparency more meaningful and effective, not more complex.
Through events, workshops, and the use of practical tools, EPACA supports its members in embedding transparency and integrity into daily practice. We are particularly committed to shaping the next generation of ethical public affairs professionals, ensuring that our values are not just aspirational, but actionable.
About EPACA
EPACA (the European Public Affairs Consultancies Association) is the representative trade association for professional public affairs consultancies active in the EU marketplace. Public affairs consultancies play a crucial and active role in the democratic process, acting as a link between the world of business, civil society, and European policymakers. At EPACA, we aim to lead by example, upholding the highest ethical and professional standards in our work, promoting more transparent decision-making, and acting as the go-to spokesperson for anyone who wants to know more about public affairs activities.
Why join EPACA?
Transparency and ethics in the public arena continue to be under scrutiny. Public affairs consultancies must ensure that we and our employees abide by and are protected by accepted policies, codes, and regulations. EPACA is the only professional body at EU level representing the interests of public affairs consultancies and members are an active and vital part of the association’s activities. By becoming a member of EPACA, consultancies can contribute to the promotion of the public affairs profession, network with peers, exchange ideas, and stay abreast of what matters to public affairs professionals in Brussels.
