A fierce political battle over transparency is unfolding in Brussels, as Patriots for Europe (PfE), a recently formed conservative faction in the European Parliament, has lodged an unprecedented number of freedom of information requests with the European Commission. The group has submitted a total of 86 requests, aiming to gain access to details of thousands of contracts between the EU and various non-governmental organisations (NGOs). Patriots for Europe says these requests are part of a broader push for increased transparency about how taxpayer money is allocated to NGOs across the bloc. The European Commission has so far rejected these freedom of information requests, asserting that they were insufficiently clear or overly broad. PfE disputes this interpretation and maintains that their requests are fully justified under EU transparency laws. As tensions escalate, PfE has confirmed that it intends to appeal the Commission's decision to the European Ombudsman, Teresa Anjinho. The group is also considering legal action if necessary, suggesting a protracted fight may lie ahead. The group's focus on NGO funding arises from growing concerns among conservative political forces in Europe about the allocation of EU funds. Patriots for Europe alleges that EU money frequently supports NGOs involved in political advocacy without clear mandates from member states. PfE argues that such funding patterns represent an unacceptable use of taxpayer resources, necessitating greater accountability and scrutiny of EU institutions and their financial arrangements. Patriots for Europe was formally established on 8 July 2024, quickly rising to prominence as the third-largest political group in the European Parliament. Comprising 84 MEPs, the faction includes representatives from influential conservative parties such as Hungary's Fidesz, Austria’s Freedom Party (FPÖ), and Spain's Vox. Under its broad umbrella, these national conservative parties have united around common goals, including demands for institutional reforms and increased transparency within EU bodies. With PfE intensifying pressure on the European Commission, the stage is set for a politically charged confrontation over transparency. The Commission now faces a critical choice: either release detailed information that could expose politically sensitive financial arrangements, or continue resisting disclosure and risk appearing obstructive to public scrutiny. Whatever the outcome, Patriots for Europe’s campaign has already succeeded in placing the EU’s transparency practices firmly in the political spotlight....