MCC Brussels Think Tank Suspended from EU Transparency Register Over Double Registration

The Brussels‑based conservative think tank MCC Brussels had its registration in the European Union Transparency Register suspended after a 14‑month investigation. The EU cited a "double registration" issue, arguing that each organization should have only one entry, even though MCC Brussels is a separate legal entity funded by its Hungarian parent, MCC Hungary. MCC Brussels disputed the decision, noting that the Register’s FAQs allow subsidiaries to file separate registrations and citing examples such as the World Wide Fund for Nature.

The suspension followed a complaint filed by the left‑leaning activist group Corporate Europe Observatory, which accused MCC Brussels of far‑right ties and alleged financial disclosure errors. MCC Brussels refuted the allegations, and the EU found no wrongdoing beyond the registration technicality. The think tank released a video featuring its Director of Communication John O'Brien and Chief of Staff Tony Gilland, explaining the suspension and its impact on access to EU institutions and events.