EU Commission Confirms NGOs Used EU Funds for Political Campaigns Against Climate Critics
The European Commission has officially confirmed that NGOs funded by EU money did not only support environmental and climate projects, but also launched targeted political campaigns against critics of Brussels’ climate policy. This admission comes after years of speculation and accusations, particularly concerning the multi-billion euro LIFE program.
The Commission found that the projects submitted by NGOs and attached to their agreements on operating cost subsidies in some cases encompassed specific interest representation measures and impermissible lobbying activities.
The program, originally designed to support environmental and climate protection measures, has, according to the EU Commission, also enabled the financing of “impermissible lobbying activities.” These activities targeted political actors who opposed certain climate policy activities of the EU. Internal reports show that strategic agreements were made to mobilize against conservative politicians and critical voices.
Financial opacity and problematic practices
Another point of criticism is the lack of transparency in the use of the funding. Only a third of the NGOs deemed non-profit have so far revealed how they used the received funds. This lack of transparency and the unclear financial flows were tolerated despite repeated concerns.
Reform of the LIFE program
In the autumn of 2024, the EU Commission reacted to pressure from the conservative faction in the European Parliament and issued an internal directive, which prohibits NGOs from using EU funds to conduct lobbying activities within the EU institutions.
Now, after further complaints and public criticism, Brussels is announcing further reforms to the LIFE program. The Commission has promised to ensure greater transparency and prevent the misuse of EU funds for political campaigns. However, the EU Commission stresses that it will continue to support NGOs, but not for activities aimed at political influence.