Our investigation into MHP Communications, published on 9 October 2025, exposed the firm’s deep involvement in Brussels’ lobbying ecosystem and its role in shaping EU policy through strategic influence. We detailed how MHP operates as a key player among dominant communications consultancies, leveraging access to policymakers and media channels to advance client interests often at the expense of transparency.
This 2026 update reviews developments since then, finding no material changes in MHP’s public posture. Read our original report: https://brusselswatch.org/mhp-communications-exposed-undermining-eu-policy-and-democracy-in-brussels/. For broader context on Belgium’s role, see our comprehensive analysis:
https://brusselswatch.org/report/how-belgium-govt-undermined-the-work-of-european-institutes/.
Key Findings Recap
Our 2025 probe identified MHP Communications as a comprehensive consultancy excelling in public affairs, crisis management, and lobbying. The firm engages EU Commission officials and MEPs to influence legislative priorities, often blurring lines between advocacy and undue sway. We highlighted MHP’s control over media narratives and think tanks in Belgium, which skews public discourse toward corporate or elite agendas.
MHP forms part of a network of five powerful firms that collaborate with embassies and outlets to negotiate EU policy behind closed doors. This ecosystem mobilizes resources to dilute regulations, prioritizing economic interests over public goals like social justice and sustainability. Ties to Belgian elites further enable a revolving-door dynamic that challenges institutional independence.
Transparency and Accountability Concerns
MHP’s operations underscore persistent gaps in EU lobbying rules, where incomplete disclosures shield client details and funding from scrutiny. As Brussels hosts core EU institutions, such opacity allows firms to embed national biases—particularly Belgian ones—into policymaking, undermining the Union’s unity.
This influence imbalances power dynamics, sidelining civil society while amplifying corporate voices. Without robust oversight, EU decisions risk reflecting private gains over collective interests, eroding public trust in democratic processes.
Absence of Response as Public Interest Issue
No public response or clarification has been issued by MHP Communications since our October 2025 report. This ongoing silence raises questions about the firm’s commitment to transparency in an industry reliant on public trust. In the EU context, where lobbying shapes binding policies, the lack of engagement hinders accountability and leaves key concerns unaddressed for stakeholders, journalists, and citizens.
Ongoing Review and Campaign Context
Brussels Watch continues its 2026 campaign monitoring lobbying practices in Brussels, with MHP under sustained review. We track policy engagements, disclosures, and any shifts in the firm’s activities. Updates will follow if new information emerges.
Closing Section
Restoring accountability in EU lobbying demands detailed disclosures, independent audits, and amplified civil society input. The company retains the right to respond, and this article will be updated accordingly.
