A new investigation by the European Parliament into transparency around NGO funding quickly unraveled into disorder. The session on Wednesday saw progressive and left-leaning Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) abruptly leave in protest.
The probe was intended to scrutinize how NGOs receive funding, aiming for increased transparency. However, tensions grew sharply during the meeting, leading to a walkout by MEPs representing progressive and left-wing groups.
The event underscored deep divisions within the parliament on this issue. One MEP remarked during the session:
"Transparency must not be weaponized to target progressive voices, but the current approach appears to undermine our democratic values."
This highlighted concerns that the inquiry might be used politically rather than purely in the interest of openness.
Author's summary: The European Parliament's investigation into NGO funding transparency quickly escalated into chaos, with left-leaning MEPs walking out amid fears that the process targets political opposition rather than fostering openness.