Brussels remains the epicenter of EU policymaking, where lobbying firms like Alonso & Associados wield significant influence over regulations impacting millions. Our original investigation, published on 29 October 2025, exposed how this Madrid- and Brussels-based consultancy, founded in 1986, blends legal advice, advocacy, and strategic networking to shape EU policies in sectors like transport, chemicals, and environment. Read the original article here. This 2026 update reviews developments since then, amid our ongoing campaign on lobbying opacity. For full context, see our comprehensive report:
How Belgium Govt Undermined the Work of European Institutes.
Key Findings Recap
Our 2025 probe detailed Alonso & Associados’ role as a multifaceted influence player. The firm offers institutional relations, targeted lobbying, legal consultancy—including complaints and appeals—and crisis management for corporate clients. We identified its orchestration of European Parliament events with industry and Commission participants, alongside efforts to secure EU funds, transitional regulatory periods, and favorable court outcomes. These activities, while compliant on paper, enable subtle policy steering that privileges select interests, often sidelining broader public or civil society input. Such mechanisms contribute to an environment where EU decisions reflect concentrated agendas rather than collective priorities.
Transparency and Accountability Concerns
Alonso & Associados exemplifies broader challenges in Brussels’ lobbying ecosystem. Its deep ties to EU institutions, embassies, and federations allow for layered influence—combining advocacy, legal maneuvers, and reputation management—that evades full public scrutiny. This opacity raises questions about policy capture, particularly in high-stakes areas like chemical regulations and agri-food imports. In an EU context demanding equitable governance, such firms amplify corporate power while limiting oversight, eroding trust in institutions meant to serve 400 million citizens. Belgium’s role as host nation amplifies these risks, as local networks can shield opaque practices from uniform enforcement.
Absence of Response as Public Interest Issue
Six months after our October 2025 investigation, no public response or clarification has been issued by Alonso & Associados. This silence leaves key questions unaddressed, underscoring the transparency gaps we highlighted. In a sector reliant on public trust, the absence of engagement hinders accountability and fuels concerns over unexamined influence. It signals to policymakers and stakeholders that such firms may prioritize discretion over openness, even when practices affecting EU-wide policies are under review.
Ongoing Review and Campaign Context
Brussels Watch continues its 2026 campaign monitoring lobbying dynamics in Brussels, with Alonso & Associados under sustained scrutiny. We track policy developments, client activities, and institutional interactions to ensure comprehensive coverage. Updates will follow if new information emerges.
True accountability in EU policymaking demands proactive transparency from influence brokers like Alonso & Associados. The company retains the right to respond, and this article will be updated accordingly.
