In the past few years, the mega search base and global tech company Google has financed culturally and educationally enriching programs in various parts of Europe. According to The New York Times, projects include the recently showcased Belgian virtual reality exhibit, as well as digital training courses and financial prospects in startup offices and businesses. In the clutches of financial and regulatory issues, Google is now more than ever striving to give its image in Europe a major face lift.
European statements and interactions have hinted at Google’s declining reputation amongst the continent’s industry experts and enthusiasts. The corporation now aims to ease their image with the concept of soft lobbying. According to The New York Times, soft lobbying revolves around the ideology of a company influencing and changing the perspectives of the general public, rather than paying off registered lobbyists for government and social influences and image rehabilitation.
Perhaps the endorsements and the public maneuvers serve as a response to the recent accusations and claims against the company. The claims classify Google as a company that does not “fully protect European’s privacy rights online”. The claims also suggest that the company broke anti-trust rules in multiple situations. In retaliation, Google has now added an enormous $450 million funding pool to further mold a new reputation and a new face for the European public.
Global Google operator Matt Brittin stated that their vast array of programs “are important for their partners, for them, and for the countries of where they work”. It proves necessary to recognize the potential and positive feedback about Google’s endorsements and implementations. According to The New York Times, chief executive of Euronews Michael Peters offered his insight. “Of course, Google has its own agenda to show to Europe’s political powers that they aren’t bad guys,” said Peters. “But this gives organizations like ours the chance to do these types of projects. It wouldn’t have happened without Google”.
Contrasting opinions present a much less welcoming demeanor. European critics and industrial overseers and enthusiasts are concerned over Google’s overwhelming arrival and forceful representation. The idea that Google will have more digital and technological influence amongst many different programs, which will be obtained from their endorsements and contributions, is just too much. Retired elementary teacher and film star Sue Hughes reported her dismay to The New York Times. “It’s like they used to say in the war. American companies like Google are oversexed, overpaid and over here.”
