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MCC Brussels highlights EU and government funding of NGOs to push political agendas amid German election fallout
Brussels, February 27th 2025
As Germany’s Christian Democrats take aim at public funding for NGOs involved in left-wing political protests, MCC Brussels released a groundbreaking report exposing how NGOs across Europe exploit their status for political and financial gains. This timely research reveals patterns of mismanagement, opaque funding sources, and undue political influence, echoing concerns now emerging in Germany.
Read the full report on the EU’s NGO funding here:
In a pointed series of parliamentary inquiries, Germany’s Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and Christian Social Union (CSU) are questioning the neutrality of state-funded NGOs, particularly those involved in recent mass protests against their policies. This move aligns with an EU-wide push to scrutinize NGOs that wield significant influence while benefiting from public funding.
“It seems NGOs are no longer non-governmental organizations at all, but really rent-a-mob paid to protest, push and lobby for the agenda of government elites and bureaucratic interests,” said Frank Furedi, executive director of MCC Brussels. “NGOs are acting as unaccountable political players. Our research shows a troubling, pan-European trend of NGOs receiving taxpayer funds while engaging in partisan advocacy. The recent developments in Germany only highlight the urgency of greater transparency and oversight.”
Key findings from the report include:
- Detailed case studies illustrating paid political advocacy by prominent NGOs.
- Evidence of NGOs influencing policy and public opinion while receiving government funds.
- Analysis of foreign funding sources shaping NGO operations across Europe.
- Recommendations for stricter oversight, transparency measures, and donor due diligence.
As scrutiny intensifies in Germany and across the EU, MCC Brussels calls for a complete overhaul of how NGOs operate within democratic societies. MCC Brussels are calling for an EU DOGE to get to the bottom of this. The full report is available for review, and MCC Brussels invites policymakers, journalists, and concerned citizens to engage in this critical discussion.
