Q&A
This section answers some of the most common questions about public affairs and how Lykke Advice supports companies in navigating EU and national policymaking. Whether you are new to public affairs or exploring how strategic advocacy can benefit your organisation, these questions provide a clear overview of our approach, services, and the value we deliver.
Q: What is public affairs?
A: Public affairs is the practice of engaging with policymakers, politicians, and other stakeholders to influence public policy, and EU rules in a way that aligns with your organisation’s objectives. It combines strategic communication, policy expertise, and stakeholder engagement to help companies anticipate regulatory changes, advocate for favourable policies, and strengthen their position in the public sphere.
Q: What are the benefits to my company of engaging with public affairs?
A: Engaging in public affairs allows your company to proactively shape policy outcomes, manage risks, and uncover new business opportunities. It helps build relationships with key decision-makers, enhances your reputation, and ensures your voice is heard in the development of regulations that affect your sector. Essentially, it turns the complex policymaking landscape into a strategic advantage.
Q: Can SMEs influence EU policy?
A: Absolutely. While large corporations often have dedicated teams, SMEs can also make a meaningful impact by focusing on targeted advocacy, building coalitions, and leveraging expert advisers. The EU’s policymaking system values evidence-based input, meaning well-prepared SMEs can influence legislation, shape consultations, and have their perspectives represented in Brussels. Strategic engagement can also support market access by helping SMEs navigate regulatory requirements, remove barriers to entry, and create a more favourable business environment across the EU.
Q: Is travelling to Brussels necessary?
A: While in-person meetings with EU institutions can strengthen relationships, travel is no longer the only way to engage effectively. Virtual meetings, digital consultations, and strategic communications can deliver tangible results. At Lykke Advice, we help clients combine on-the-ground presence with remote engagement to maximise impact efficiently.
Q: Does Lykke Advice work with national governments as well as the EU?
A: Yes. Our expertise spans both national and EU-level public affairs. We understand how policies at the national level interact with EU legislation, enabling us to develop integrated strategies that align your advocacy efforts across multiple jurisdictions.
Q: What is the timeline for influencing EU legislation?
A: Influencing EU legislation is a strategic, long-term process. It often starts months, even years, before formal proposals are published. Effective advocacy requires monitoring legislative developments, engaging with stakeholders early, and providing evidence-based input at key stages of the legislative process. Lykke Advice guides clients through this timeline to ensure timely and impactful engagement.
Q: Can I meet politicians and EU officials?
A: Yes, but access is structured and requires careful planning. Public affairs is about creating meaningful interactions rather than just attending events. Through our established networks, we facilitate meetings and briefings with MEPs, Commissioners, and senior officials, ensuring your engagement is purposeful, strategic, and aligned with policy opportunities.
Q: What is Lykke Advice’s selection criteria for new clients?
A: We partner with clients whose missions align with our values and where we can add tangible impact. We look for clarity of objectives, commitment to strategic engagement, and potential for sustainable collaboration. We particularly work with companies based in Europe or those that make a significant contribution to the EU, ensuring that every partnership enables us to deliver measurable results while maintaining the highest professional standards.
