A hypergraph analysis of the European Commission lobby network

Abstract We use transparency data published by the European Commission (EC) to perform a quantitative analysis of the structure and dynamics of stakeholder consultation in the EU policy-making process. We analyze the data through the prism of network theory by constructing a hypergraph whose nodes are EC officials and stakeholders, and hyperedges connect entities that participate in the same meetings. Our analysis highlights the presence of a hierarchical core-periphery structure, with a few well-connected entities that occupy the center of the network and enjoy a stable integration in the EC policy-making process. Examination of the core composition reveals that companies and trade associations maintain closer relationships with the EC. A regression analysis shows that lobbying efforts and company size are significant predictors of company centrality, independent of other objective characteristics. Our findings provide quantitative evidence supporting the perception of lobbying as a tool dominated by well-connected actors, while also revealing heterogeneous lobbying strategies across stakeholder groups.