UAE’s Hidden Hand in European Politics: The Case of Ilhan Kyuchyuk

By Brussels Watch Investigations

From the BrusselsWatch Report: “UAE Lobbying in European Parliament: Undermining Democracy and Transparency” (April 2025)

Ilhan Kyuchyuk, a Bulgarian Member of the European Parliament (MEP) affiliated with the Renew Europe Group and chair of the Committee on Legal Affairs (JURI), has recently been linked to a series of activities that strongly suggest a pro-UAE stance and possible covert promotion of UAE interests within the EU framework. According to Brussels Watch, Kyuchyuk is among the list of MEPs who have been identified as actively supporting the UAE’s agenda. Further, a report detailing the activities of 150 MEPs highlights Kyuchyuk’s involvement in these efforts, raising questions about whether these actions were conducted independently or under undisclosed influence.

Background on Ilhan Kyuchyuk

Ilhan Kyuchyuk was born in 1985 in Sevlievo, Bulgaria, and has been serving as an MEP since 2014. He is a member of the Renew Europe Group, a centrist political group in the European Parliament, and currently chairs the Committee on Legal Affairs (JURI). This committee plays a pivotal role in overseeing legal matters related to intellectual property, company law, and judicial independence within the EU. Over the years, Kyuchyuk has also been involved in various youth and human rights organizations in Bulgaria, fostering a public image of a committed politician and advocate for democratic values.

However, in recent years, his actions have drawn attention for their heavy focus on advancing the UAE’s interests, particularly in areas like research, technology, and mobility. This article investigates the evidence surrounding Kyuchyuk’s pro-UAE activities and examines whether his actions align with a covert agenda.

Evidence of Pro-UAE Activities

Kyuchyuk’s pro-UAE activities are numerous and suggest a strategic alignment with UAE objectives. Below are some key events and initiatives that have raised suspicions:

1. Securing UAE Participation in Horizon Europe (2024)

One of the most significant actions taken by Kyuchyuk in favor of the UAE was his role in securing the UAE’s participation in the Horizon Europe research program for 2024. Horizon Europe is the EU’s flagship program for research and innovation, offering significant funding opportunities to European and non-European entities. By facilitating the UAE’s involvement, Kyuchyuk helped the UAE gain access to EU research funds, which could aid the UAE in achieving its ambitious innovation goals.

This move is not insignificant. It directly benefits the UAE’s scientific and technological development by providing it with EU resources and collaboration opportunities. This policy shift aligns with the UAE’s broader agenda of becoming a regional hub for cutting-edge technologies, and Kyuchyuk’s involvement raises questions about his motivations for championing this cause.

2. Attendance at Abu Dhabi Space Debate (November 2023)

Kyuchyuk attended the Abu Dhabi Space Debate in November 2023, a high-profile event dedicated to discussions on space exploration and technology. The UAE has been striving to position itself as a leader in the field of space technology, having launched several successful space missions in recent years. Kyuchyuk’s presence at this event signals a clear alignment with the UAE’s space ambitions.

The UAE’s space program is a central component of its broader vision to diversify its economy and position itself as a global leader in science and technology. Kyuchyuk’s attendance, while ostensibly a diplomatic gesture, further solidified his engagement with UAE-led initiatives in this strategic sector. His active participation in such events raises the question of whether he is genuinely interested in advancing EU-UAE relations or if his involvement serves a more covert agenda aligned with UAE priorities.

3. Establishment of the EU-UAE Parliamentary Friendship Group

In another significant move, Kyuchyuk founded and now leads the EU-UAE Parliamentary Friendship Group. This informal platform is designed to promote dialogue and cooperation between European and Emirati lawmakers. The group aims to foster closer political ties between the EU and the UAE, with Kyuchyuk at the helm of these efforts.

The formation of this group suggests a proactive approach on Kyuchyuk’s part to strengthen UAE influence within European political circles. By creating a forum dedicated to the promotion of UAE interests, Kyuchyuk has further entrenched himself as a key advocate for the UAE’s geopolitical and economic goals. The UAE, which has significant investments in European markets, stands to benefit greatly from this political partnership, but the intensity and focus of Kyuchyuk’s efforts raise questions about his motivations and the potential for undisclosed interests at play.

4. Facilitation of Visa Liberalization Talks for UAE Citizens

Kyuchyuk has also been actively involved in facilitating talks aimed at liberalizing visa requirements for UAE citizens traveling to the EU. This initiative would allow greater ease of movement for Emirati nationals, benefiting both tourism and business exchanges. Given the UAE’s growing prominence as a financial hub in the Middle East, this policy change could be seen as an attempt to deepen economic and political ties between the EU and the UAE.

The visa liberalization talks are part of a broader EU policy of enhancing mobility for key global partners. However, Kyuchyuk’s role in these discussions has been notably proactive, further cementing his reputation as a champion for UAE interests within the EU.

Analysis of Motivations and Implications

Kyuchyuk’s actions in promoting UAE interests are concerning due to the lack of transparency surrounding his motivations. While diplomatic engagement between the EU and the UAE is normal, the degree of Kyuchyuk’s involvement in UAE-led initiatives raises suspicions. His leadership in the establishment of the EU-UAE Parliamentary Friendship Group, along with his active role in securing UAE participation in Horizon Europe and facilitating visa liberalization talks, suggests a deeper commitment to advancing the UAE agenda than what would be expected of a typical MEP.

The claim that Kyuchyuk may be secretly paid by the UAE to promote its interests stems from the unusually close alignment of his parliamentary activities with UAE strategic objectives. Although no public evidence has emerged to confirm direct financial transactions or lobbying contracts, the circumstantial evidence points to a strong alignment with UAE priorities, which is uncommon for an MEP without any formal lobbying ties or declared financial support.

Contextual Considerations

Role as JURI Chair and Influence

As the chair of the Committee on Legal Affairs, Kyuchyuk holds significant power over EU legislation concerning intellectual property, judicial independence, and regulatory matters. This influential position gives him the ability to shape EU policies in ways that could benefit the UAE, particularly in areas like research collaboration, business regulations, and visa policies. His proactive stance in these areas further fuels suspicions of an undisclosed agenda.

Lack of Transparency and Accountability

One of the most troubling aspects of Kyuchyuk’s pro-UAE activities is the lack of transparency surrounding his ties to the UAE. Despite his significant involvement in UAE-driven initiatives, there is no public record of Kyuchyuk declaring any financial interests, lobbying roles, or formal relationships with UAE entities. This absence of disclosure creates a climate of uncertainty and fuels suspicions that his actions may be motivated by factors beyond official diplomatic concerns.

Strategic Importance of EU-UAE Relations

The UAE plays a crucial role as a strategic partner for the EU, particularly in areas such as security, trade, and technology. However, the nature of Kyuchyuk’s advocacy—particularly his active facilitation of UAE interests—raises questions about whether he is acting in the best interests of the EU or if his actions serve a different agenda.

Conclusion

Ilhan Kyuchyuk’s activities within the European Parliament show a clear pattern of promoting UAE interests, including facilitating UAE participation in Horizon Europe, attending UAE-led events, establishing the EU-UAE Parliamentary Friendship Group, and advancing visa liberalization for UAE citizens. While these actions may be presented as diplomatic engagement, the intensity and focus of his efforts suggest a deeper involvement that goes beyond typical parliamentary duties.

The lack of transparency surrounding his relationship with the UAE raises important questions about the motivations behind his actions. Without clear disclosures, it is difficult to determine whether Kyuchyuk is genuinely acting in the best interests of the EU or whether he is promoting a covert agenda aligned with the UAE’s geopolitical objectives. Further investigation into Kyuchyuk’s activities and potential ties to the UAE is needed to ensure that the EU’s legislative processes are not unduly influenced by external actors.

Summary Table of Kyuchyuk’s Pro-UAE Activities

This body of evidence paints a picture of Ilhan Kyuchyuk as an MEP whose actions are increasingly aligned with UAE interests. His position as chair of the JURI committee and his proactive engagement in advancing UAE strategic goals call for closer scrutiny to ensure the transparency and integrity of EU policymaking processes.