Interest groups are not uncommon in politics. But the “Allied for Startups” association stands out. Because behind it are tech companies like Amazon, Google, Microsoft and Apple who want to deceive politicians, warns the LobbyControl initiative.
The name of the initiative “Allied for Startups” initially suggests an interest group for young companies. But how Lobby control reportedthere is something else behind it.
What is Allied for Startups?
The alleged startup association claims to represent young European companies. However, behind this are companies such as Amazon, Google, Microsoft and Apple, among others.
In mid-October 2024, the supposed startup initiative invited people to its annual conference. A “VIP Policy Dinner” also took place, to which members of the European Parliament were invited, among others.
The speaker was loud Lobby control Aura Salla was also there. She was formerly Meta’s chief lobbyist and now sits in the EU Parliament.
What connections do Google, Amazon and Co. have?
Already in 2020 a Google lobbying strategy document public. It states that the “Allied for Startups” initiative represents Google’s interests in Brussels politics. Among other things, it was explicitly about the Digital Markets Act and the Digital Services Act.
But loud Lobby control There are other direct connections between employees of the interest group and Amazon and Google. Accordingly, an advisor to the initiative also works for Amazon and Google through his lobbying agency Leading Edge Global Communications.
Another Google lobbyist also worked for the search engine company and the supposed startup representative for years. Between 2020 and 2023 he worked for both Google and the interest group.
“Allied for Startups”: Lobby control issues warning to MPs
Lobby control sees interest representation as a “label fraud”. Amazon, Microsoft and Co. would take advantage of the “startup image” to promote their interests to members of the European Parliament.
The initiative’s annual conference was also explicitly designed for this. Since it was not clear from the announcement who was behind the association Lobby control warned MPs about the event. The association therefore calls for the actors behind such initiatives to be disclosed:
It is problematic how Google, Amazon & Co are trying to deceive politicians with initiatives like Allied for Startups with fraudulent labels.
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The post “Allied for Startups”: Tech companies infiltrate politics with fake associations by Maria Gramsch appeared first on BASIC thinking. Follow us too Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
As a Tech Industry expert, I find the notion that tech companies are using fake associations like “Allied for Startups” to infiltrate politics concerning. It is important for tech companies to engage in transparent and ethical practices when it comes to lobbying and advocacy efforts. Using fake associations can erode trust in the industry and ultimately harm its reputation.
It is crucial for tech companies to be honest and upfront about their intentions and affiliations when engaging in political activities. Transparency is key in building credibility and maintaining trust with both policymakers and the public.
Furthermore, tech companies should prioritize working with legitimate industry associations and organizations that represent the interests of the tech community in a responsible and ethical manner. By aligning with reputable groups, tech companies can ensure that their voices are heard in a legitimate and transparent way.
In conclusion, it is imperative for tech companies to uphold high standards of integrity and honesty in their political engagements. Using fake associations to advance their interests is not only unethical but also counterproductive in the long run. It is essential for the tech industry to prioritize transparency and accountability in all aspects of their operations, including their involvement in politics.
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