How Consultants and Lobbyists Shape Power

In today’s political landscape, decision-making is no longer confined to elected officials alone. A powerful, professionalized class of consultants and lobbyists now operates behind the scenes, using advanced data analytics, psychological insights, and strategic communication to shape both policy and electoral outcomes.In this episode of Diplomacy and International Relations, we explore how political consulting has evolved into a multi-billion dollar global industry, and the tensions this creates between winning elections and sustaining democratic integrity. As we move into 2025, the growing use of artificial intelligence in voter micro-targeting, alongside the expanding influence of “dark money,” raises urgent questions about transparency, accountability, and public trust in democratic systems.If you like what you hear and want to support this podcast, you can follow and subscribe on Patreon and gain access to more episodes and weekly and monthly briefings on Danish politics.https://www.patreon.com/cw/iqulture/