European companies shift toward pro-climate lobbying
According to Influencemap, a growing number of European companies now support strong climate policies. In 2025, 23% of companies lobbied in line with 1.5C °C climate goals, up from just 3% in 2019. Over half are at least partially aligned, while opposition from companies has dropped. However, industry associations lag behind, with only 12% supportive.
The report highlights a “quiet majority” backing decarbonisation, challenging the idea that green policies hurt profits. Companies like Lufthansa and Enagás faced criticism for past lobbying, though they claim support for net zero. The shift comes amid EU tensions between climate ambition and competitiveness.
AI agents can develop human-like social norms
According to a new study by City, St George’s University of London, and the IT University of Copenhagen, AI agents powered by large language models can spontaneously develop social conventions similar to humans. Researchers observed that groups of AI agents, when interacting in pairs, formed shared naming conventions without central coordination, mirroring how humans develop language norms.
The findings challenge the view of AI as a solitary tool, revealing complex group dynamics. The study also showed that small agent groups could influence larger populations, highlighting human-like critical mass effects in AI behaviour.
EU Commission: TikTok breached digital laws on ad transparency
The European Commission has found TikTok in breach of the EU’s Digital Services Act (DSA) for failing to provide transparency over paid advertising. The platform may face a fine of up to 6% of global turnover. Under DSA rules, platforms must host a searchable ad library detailing sponsors and targeting.
TikTok’s failure comes amid a separate ongoing investigation into election interference in Romania, where foreign actors allegedly exploited the platform. TikTok disputes the commission’s interpretation but is reviewing findings. Other investigations into TikTok’s algorithm, child safety, and age verification are still underway.