[Ip-health] International Policy Network's "Independence and Guiding Principles"

[Martin Smith]

I am puzzled by the International Policy Network's "Independence and
Guiding Principles".

Previously they have said:

"We... receive contributions from businesses, but none is tied to the
production of particular papers, let alone the delivery of specific
policy recommendations."

Now in their "principles" they say:

"IPN develops its research and advocacy agenda independently, through
internal research and brainstorming. On the basis of this agenda, we
produce fundraising proposals, which are then submitted to potential
donors."

They seem deeply conflicted about what they consider acceptable behaviour.

Their "principles" simply mean IPN brainstorms to work out what Pfizer
wants. Then they submit proposals to Pfizer asking for money to do
research and advocacy that backs Pfizer's view.

How exactly is this different from what a PR company does?

Martin

P.S. They seem to have an offshore company called IPN Services Pty
Ltd. What juristiction is IPN Services Pty Ltd based in? What is its
purpose? Who funds it and what is its turnover?