Bilderberg Meeting

Bilderberg Meeting

The Bilderberg Meeting is an annual private conference of approximately 120 to 150 political leaders and experts from industry, finance, academia, and the media. Established in 1954, the meeting is designed to foster dialogue between Europe and North America. The conference is named after the Hotel de Bilderberg in Oosterbeek, Netherlands, where the first meeting took place.

History

The first Bilderberg Meeting was initiated by several individuals, including Polish politician Józef Retinger, who was concerned about the growth of anti-Americanism in Western Europe. Retinger proposed an international conference at which leaders from European countries and the United States could meet to promote understanding. The first meeting was held from May 29 to 31, 1954, and was deemed a success, leading to the establishment of an annual conference.

Structure and Organization

The Bilderberg Meeting is organized by a steering committee with two members from each of approximately 18 nations. The committee decides on the invitation list and the agenda. Meetings are held under the Chatham House Rule, which allows participants to use the information received but not to reveal the identity or affiliation of the speakers or any other participant.

Participants

Participants are drawn from a wide range of fields, including politics, business, academia, and media. The meeting is known for its exclusivity and the high-profile nature of its attendees, which have included heads of state, royalty, and leading figures in business and finance.

Topics Discussed

The topics discussed at the Bilderberg Meeting are varied and often include issues of global concern such as economic growth, international security, and environmental challenges. The meetings are informal and designed to encourage open and frank discussions.

Criticism and Controversy

The Bilderberg Meeting has been the subject of criticism and conspiracy theories, largely due to its secretive nature and the influence of its participants. Critics argue that the meeting lacks transparency and accountability, while conspiracy theorists claim it is a forum for a global elite to control world affairs.

Also see

• Trilateral Commission
• Council on Foreign Relations
• World Economic Forum
• Bohemian Grove