Frank Furedi has resigned as the head of MCC Brussels, a thinktank closely associated with Viktor Orbán, due to unpaid wages affecting staff since July. This resignation highlights a significant financial crisis within the organisation, which was established to influence political discourse in the EU but is now struggling to maintain operations.
The lack of funding stems from a recent change in the Hungarian government, which has pledged to investigate corruption linked to state financing of the thinktank. This shift raises questions about the future of MCC Brussels, as it has already seen staff reductions and is now down to a skeleton crew of 12 employees.
Furedi’s departure signals potential instability not only for the thinktank but also for the broader political narrative it has supported. The inability to pay staff and suppliers could undermine its mission and reputation, affecting its influence in European political discussions.
As the new government in Hungary seeks to address corruption, the implications for MCC Brussels could extend beyond financial woes, potentially reshaping the landscape of political thought and debate in the EU, especially regarding illiberal governance.
Source: The Guardian
