In contrast to the trend towards the large-N studies and the use of quantitative and statistical analysis that are increasingly dominating the literature on interest groups, this paper will show the potential for, and how to address the challenges involved in, using process tracing and more interpretative methods when studying the role of non-state actors (NSAs), such as business groups, NGOs, think tanks and solidarity movements, in EU policy-making process. This argument is advanced on the basis of two points. First, methodological approaches based on quantitative large-N studies reflect a rational-choice approach in the field, which conceives lobbying in the EU as a strategic interaction between EU institutions and NSAs, who use information and expertise instrumentally to reach their goals. This paper argues, instead, that we need to analyse lobbying as a constitutive relationship through which preferences and identities are defined. Second, large-N statistical analyses need to focus on visible lobbying, thus precluding the investigation of more ‘behind the scene’ activities. In turn, this leads to the neglect of certain policy areas, such as EU foreign policy given the absence of public consultations, official documents and the mainly hidden lobbying that takes place. By investigating the evolution of EU policy towards Israel through three key moments that define the bilateral relations (rules of origin, ACAA and Guidelines), this paper demonstrates the relevance of process tracing, case studies and qualitative frame analysis in the study of lobbying in the EU. By doing so, it is possible to show how different NSAs have been involved in the policy-making process and how frames have been constructed and reconstructed as a result of these interactions.
