Hans Wetzels

Hans Wetzels, an investigative journalist known for his work on industrial fishing in Senegal, joins the conversation to expose how European companies exploit Senegal's rich fishing grounds. He reveals how joint ventures allow these firms to claim Senegalese flags while profits vanish back to Europe. Wetzels shares alarming stories of local fishermen facing declining catches and the impact this crisis has on youth, driving them to migrate. The podcast delves into the intricacies of international fishing agreements and the opaque financial flows that sustain this exploitation.

Lise Witteman, a deputy editor at Follow the Money, and Hans Wetzels, an investigative journalist covering European environmental policies, dive into the European People's Party's contentious campaign against NGOs. They reveal how the EPP has scapegoated these organizations amid its retreat from the Green Deal. The discussion touches on rising populism, the challenges NGOs face in a hostile political landscape, and the importance of diverse voices in environmental policymaking. Their insights shed light on the fragile balance between politics and civic engagement in Europe.