AP News Alteration: Previous SPD MEP Bengt Bergt Adopts Role in Gas Lobby
Update: Norderstedter recently joins the "Gas and Hydrogen Industry" association, stirring controversy with criticism from LobbyControl and Green party members.
At the heart of the controversy lies transparency and potential bias. Critics assert that ex-politicians or public officials taking roles in industry organizations may not always disclose their past connections or potential conflicts of interest, raising concerns that they could leverage their former ties to sway policy decisions for their new employers, rather than the public good.
LobbyControl, a German NGO focusing on lobbying transparency, could argue that the lack of clear regulation or oversight of these activities might allow for secretive maneuvering and undue influence on policy-making. The organization might insist that Norderstedter's role could facilitate such behavior.
The Green Party, which prioritizes environmental and social issues, could express worries if the "Gas and Hydrogen Industry" association, through Norderstedter's employment, promotes policies that might harm environmental objectives or stall the shift towards renewable energy sources.
Lastly, the local/regional setting in Berlin/Norderstedt plays a role, as critics might claim that the association's activities could unduly influence regional policies, potentially overlooking local interests or environmental concerns in favor of industry interests.
LobbyControl, given its focus on lobbying transparency, might argue that the absence of stringent policy-and-legislation addressing conflicts of interest in industry associations could lead to politics being influenced behind closed doors.
The Green party, committed to environmental and social issues, could voice concerns that the Gas and Hydrogen Industry association, with Norderstedter as a member, may use their position to push for policies that hinder the general-news agendas of renewable energy and environmental protection.
