Yevtsenko R. Institutionalisation of Lobbying in the Processes of Political Cnflict Resolution

This Thesis is devoted to revealing the essence of the process of institutionalizing lobbying as a conventional system of practices for representing interest groups and regulating political conflicts.The scientific novelty of the results obtained is to establish a dialectical relationship between the processes of democratic transit, institutional crisis and the expansion of lobbying functions, which are determined by the practices of "rational group action"; to determine that the interpretation of the lobbying process in the context of democratic transit and institutional crisis has received rational justification within the axiological paradigm. It is shown that the traditional assessment of lobbying within the "efficiency-effectiveness" scale is supplemented by the criteria of "equality" and "justice", which allows interpreting lobbying as an institution of democratic representation and conflict resolution subject to the standards of institutionalisation and regulation; in establishing the process of reconceptualisation of the role of the State in the process of consolidation and regulation of lobbying practices. It is noted that the ambivalence of the state interest in lobbying practices is manifested in: denial of unregulated lobbying practices as shadowy and low-reputation and, at the same time, support for the process of institutionalisation of lobbying in order to use its mediating democratic potential, practical experience of pluralism management, which allows increasing the adaptability of the political system. The paper identifies changes in the interpretation of lobbying in the context of institutional transformations. If the initial practices of lobbying institutionalization involved the creation of lobbying structures for the purpose of effective interaction with state institutions, neo-institutional practices involve the incorporation of lobbying structures into the formalized system of public institutions of power and governance.The practical significance of the results obtained is determined by their scientific novelty and lies in the possibility of their application in the practical work of state bodies, local governments and non-governmental structures for research, educational and applied purposes. The practical significance of the study has broad application prospects. It opens up new horizons for understanding the role of lobbying as a means of political influence and conflict resolution at various levels of government. The results of the study can be used by government agencies, local governments, and non-governmental organizations to improve the efficiency of the political process. The application of the research findings can help political actors formulate balanced and effective strategies for conflict resolution, increase transparency and openness of the political process. In the educational sphere, the results of the study can be integrated into the curricula of political science, sociology, law and public administration. Special courses can be developed based on the research: "Lobbying in Political Processes", "Practices of Interaction with Public Authorities and Administration". The study makes an important contribution to the development of political science and can serve as a basis for further research in this area.