PHILADELPHIA – Aug. 8, 2016 – For the second time in two years, the New York Times has exposed how major Washington-based think tanks allow themselves to be used by donors. And for the second time, the Middle East Forum distances itself from this foul and corrupting practice.
The first report, “Foreign Powers Buy Influence at Think Tanks,” dated Sep. 6, 2014, showed how think tanks do the bidding of foreign governments. The Forum addressed this issue at that time.
The new one, dated Aug. 7, 2016, “Researchers or Corporate Allies? Think Tanks Blur the Line,” establishes a similar pattern, where such major corporations as JPMorgan Chase and Microsoft make donations to such major research institutes as Brookings and CSIS in return for favorable research reports, networking opportunities, and even staff appointments.
In combination, these exposés severely undercut the reputation of research institutes such as ours and we condemn these actions.
The Middle East Forum has never and will never accept such self-serving donations. Our independence is precious, allowing us to provide analysis on controversial and difficult issues others avoid – questioning assumptions, provoking thought, and offering creative solutions. Our audience, from students to policy makers, can rely on us to criticize, expose, and advise based on an honest evaluation of American interests.
For immediate release
For more information, contact
Gregg Roman, Director
Roman@MEForum.org
215-546-5406, ext. 104
