MEPs introduce new transparency rules on third-country lobbying in EU decision-making, aiming to prevent negative labeling, increase public trust, and address concerns of foreign influence. The rules apply to interest representation activities influencing EU policy, excluding certain activities like governmental functions. Safeguards are in place to avoid stigmatization, and a directive establishes national registers for transparency. The focus is on disclosure, not guilt, in response to citizens' demand for transparency in shaping laws. The directive will be debated in November, aiming to set minimum transparency requirements for protecting democracies.