The most influential think tanks in Brussels are heavily funded with money coming from the United States. Presented as independent voices, these organisations enjoy privileged access to lawmakers in Brussels. Yet experts warn they might form a gateway for U.S. interest representation in the EU.
  • Riddick3001@lemmy.worldEnglish
    13·
    4 days ago

    “In 2023 alone, at least 115 million euros flowed from the U.S. to think tanks that influence the EU policy debate, the analysis shows. That’s out of a total of 350 million euros the think tanks received from both European and non-European funders – and by far the biggest chunk of money from a single country.”

    So like 33 % of the European think-tank funds originate from the USA. That is quite a big chunk.

    • huppakee@piefed.socialEnglish
      9·
      4 days ago

      It’s not only a big chunck, what to me is even more worrying is that the US likely considers this a good way (read: profitable) to spend their money.

      The prospect of U.S. giants like Apple and Amazon having more sway over Brussels’ policies is particularly troubling at a time when the Trump administration is pushing hard to weaken EU digital and privacy rules in favour of American tech interests.

      • Riddick3001@lemmy.worldEnglish
        5·
        4 days ago

        Yes, 115 million is a bargain. I imagine most people know these think-tanks and their agendas. I hope but am unsure how and if think-tanks fit in the new stricter European lobby policy they’re making.

        Add. I found this EP update “Transparency of third-country lobbying in EU decision-making”