Today, the sphere of Government Relations (GR) and lobbying is undergoing a deep transformation. Sanction-related and regulatory risks have increased so significantly that GR is no longer just a communication function but has become a factor influencing key business decisions—from M&A deals to investment strategies and localization. In this environment, the training of specialists capable of effectively engaging with government stakeholders and managing political and regulatory risks becomes particularly important.

Baikal Communications Group published an article on RBC, detailing educational programs in the field of GR and lobbying in Russia.

In 2024 the company in association with a team of sociologists, prepared its second expert research on the Russian GR-industry. The research also touched upon education in GR and lobbying, which, according to the results, is in high demand.

According to the survey, 78% of GR professionals feel the need for further training, and 63% of respondents believe that there should be more educational programs in the market.

Изучение мнения профильных специалистов позволило сформировать срез российского рынка образовательных услуг в сфере GR и лоббистской деятельности. К наиболее известным программам повышения квалификации относятся: курсы Baikal Communications Group при МГИМО, МГУ им. М.В. Ломоносова, РАНХиГС, Финансового университета при Правительстве РФ, РЭУ им. Г.В. Плеханова и СПбГУ.

The opinions of industry specialists helped to form a profile of the Russian market for educational services in GR and lobbying. The most well-known qualification programs include courses by Baikal Communications Group at MGIMO, Moscow State University (MSU), RANEPA, the Financial University under the Government of the Russian Federation, Plekhanov Russian University of Economics, and St. Petersburg State University.

The surveyed GR specialists emphasize that the most important feature of specialized educational programs should be of practical orientation. 80% of respondents would like to acquire specific skills during their studies (mastering analytical tools, including legal ones, techniques for interacting with representatives of the executive and legislative branches) and build useful connections (networking).

The survey results suggest that the most interesting educational programs for participants are those featuring speakers who are practitioners in the field of lobbying and government relations.

The analysis shows that education in GR and lobbying in Russia is actively developing and adapting to the needs of industry specialists. The focus on acquiring specific technologies and skills, combined with the desire to build useful professional contacts, remains the key trend in the Russian GR education market.

We would like to remind you that twice a year, MGIMO Business School and Baikal Communications Group offer a week-long course on «GR and Lobbying in Business and NGOs». This is the first professional development course in GR and lobbying in Russia, built on the principle of practice for practitioners. During the course, instructors (who are practicing top managers) pay equal attention to both analytical and communication tools.

The next event will take place from 18th till 23th of November, 2024. You can find more details about the program, instructors, and reviews, as well as register for the course, on the course website.

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