Patria Group has guidelines on the subject of lobbying and opinion forming. They are based on Patria's values and Ethical Code of Conduct.
General information
Lobbying forms part of decision-making in society and the influencing of such decision-making. Decision-making requires accurate information on the stakeholders involved. Those preparing for and making decisions must understand the viewpoints of the various parties. From the company's viewpoint, the issue about which it is lobbying is often of wider societal importance and the company wants to present the matter as openly as possible and discuss it with the relevant groups. Such groups include political decision-makers and government officials, non-governmental organisations and media representatives. Through lobbying, the company seeks to strengthen its business activities and build networks.
Principles
The aim of lobbying is to provide highly concise factual or research-based information which, together with the company's viewpoint, can be presented for the consideration of a politician or other decision-maker. Such a viewpoint is based on an envisaged future situation in line with the company's goals and of which it wants to inform decision-makers. At the same time, possible problem areas are pointed out honestly and openly. Both parties benefit from the sharing of information. Such sharing involves respect for the other party and other viewpoints. Patria's guidelines on public relations apply to hospitality and gifts at lobbying events.
Our basic principles:
- We follow the laws, regulations, taxation practices and norms of the countries in which we operate.
- We act appropriately and give truthful, up-to-date information.
- We act impartially.
- We do not promote our business by resorting to bribery.
- We do not participate, as a company, in party politics nor do we support anyone engaged in such participation.
- We follow sound business practices in all business operations and act in an honest manner. We do not divulge confidential information without the permission of the customer or employer. We do not use confidential information belonging to the employer or customer against their interests.
Means of lobbying
- personal meetings
- using networks
- events, seminars, customer events
- lobbying via the media
- jointly agreed and approved themes and goals
- specification of schedule and roadmap
- mapping and analysis of target groups
- gathering of research information where necessary. It is worth making an effort to follow international discussions in our own sector, since the same issues will arise in Finnish discussions after a delay. Systematic information gathering benefits a range of parties, when such information is shared.
- jointly agreed communications (max. 2-3 messages)
- selection of contacts and various channels
- preparation of material and effective, illustrated communications
- implementation of plan and distribution of material through various channels
- reporting of dialogue and information received
- planning of the following procedures
- continuous contact
- monitoring of social media and media
- monitoring and evaluation of implemented measures
- reporting (parties reached and discussions held)
- If the company uses third parties for lobbying, these instructions also apply to them.
Sources:
Lobbauskirja, Jaskari, Hyytiäinen, Lähde, Perttula, 2010, Association of Government Relations Professionals, AGRP, www.grprofessionals/codeofconduct
