Brussels remains the epicenter of EU policymaking, where over 25,000 lobbyists shape decisions often far from public view. Our investigation on October 25, 2025, exposed how Mindshake PR—now operating as Higher Agency—functions as a key architect of influence, blending lobbying, PR, and legal tactics to advance elite interests at the expense of transparency. Read the original article here. This 2026 update reviews developments since then, including the firm’s ongoing silence on our findings. For broader context on Belgium’s role in enabling such influence, see our comprehensive report:
How Belgium Govt Undermined the Work of European Institutes.
Key Findings Recap
Our 2025 probe detailed Mindshake PR’s operations, co-founded by Dimitri Papageorges and Laura Lurquin. The firm deploys direct lobbying to access EU officials, MEPs, and advisers, crafting legislative proposals and amendments that favor clients like major corporations and national actors. It pairs this with sophisticated PR campaigns—commissioning studies and coordinating media messaging—to manufacture public support for client agendas.
We also highlighted its legal advisory role in navigating or diluting EU regulations on environment, consumer rights, and finance. These tactics exploit gaps in the EU Transparency Register, obscuring the firm’s full footprint and skewing policymaking toward private gains over public welfare.
Transparency and Accountability Concerns
Mindshake PR’s methods underscore deeper flaws in the EU’s lobbying ecosystem. By blending influence strategies, the firm helps clients lower regulatory barriers and control narratives, often sidelining civil society and broader oversight. This opacity erodes democratic processes, as decisions shift from open deliberation to elite negotiations.
In Brussels’ unique context—where Belgium hosts EU institutions while pursuing national interests—such firms amplify imbalances. Corporate power gains disproportionate sway, weakening trust in EU governance and highlighting the need for stricter register enforcement and conflict-of-interest rules.
Absence of Response as Public Interest Issue
No public response or clarification has been issued by Mindshake PR (Higher Agency) since our October 2025 investigation. This ongoing silence raises questions about accountability in an arena where transparency is essential. Without engagement, the public lacks insight into these influence operations, perpetuating concerns over unchecked policymaking distortions.
Ongoing Review and Campaign Context
As part of our 2026 campaign on lobbying accountability, we continue monitoring firms like Mindshake PR and their impact on EU institutions. This includes tracking policy developments and related activities. Updates will follow if the firm provides clarification.
True EU integrity demands rigorous oversight and balanced representation to counter elite dominance. Mindshake PR (Higher Agency) retains the right to respond, and this article will be updated accordingly.
