Data from OpenSecrets indicates that Northeastern University allocated $1,080,000 to lobbying activities in 2024. From an anti-fascist perspective, such political spending is worrisome as it suggests an active involvement in shaping policy environments in favor of established power structures, which may undermine democratic processes.

Northeastern University Lobbying Profile • OpenSecrets

The FEC data analyzed by The Huntington News shows that while Northeastern employees donated predominantly to Democratic causes, key board members donated over $1.17 million to Republican candidates, including contributions linked to pro-Trump figures. This discrepancy in political contributions, particularly from university leadership, raises concerns about the university’s alignment with authoritarian and far-right political interests. The board’s significant donations potentially signal an endorsement of policies conducive to authoritarianism, thereby negatively impacting the public and political behavior category.

FEC data show disparity in Northeastern employee, Board of Trustees political donations

The publication of a whistleblower guide by Northeastern University’s PHRGE demonstrates a strong commitment to upholding human rights and protecting whistleblowers from abuses of power. By providing crucial resources that empower individuals to expose corruption and unethical practices, this initiative reflects positively on the university’s labor relations and human rights practices, counteracting tendencies toward authoritarianism and fascism.

PHRGE Publishes Whistleblower Guide to Bolster Human Rights Defenders Fighting Corruption and Abuse

Northeastern University was found to have violated federal law by refusing to bargain with its NUPD sergeants' union, as determined by the National Labor Relations Board. This decision underscores a disregard for fair labor practices, worker rights, and compliance with the National Labor Relations Act, revealing a negative stance on labor relations and ethical responsibility.

Northeastern violated federal law in failing to bargain with NUPD union, labor board says

Despite strong support from graduate workers for unionization, Northeastern University's decision to file a legal motion to overturn the favorable election results suggests an attempt to undermine worker rights. This mixed action is particularly concerning from a labor relations standpoint, as it appears to interfere with fair labor practices and the strengthening of collective bargaining.

Northeastern U Grad Workers Overwhelmingly Unionize

By creating a free forced labor data hub, Northeastern University is taking a proactive step in ensuring transparent and ethical supply chain practices. This initiative is significant in spotlighting the use of forced labor, thereby urging corporations to adopt more responsible sourcing policies.

Did forced labor produce that shirt? Northeastern project will connect human rights violations to corporate supply chains

The expenditure of $760,000 on lobbying by Northeastern University is indicative of its desire to influence public policy. From an anti-authoritarian viewpoint, such significant lobbying activities by an influential institution may contribute to undermining democratic processes by advancing policy decisions that favor elite interests, potentially aligning with authoritarian or corporatist tendencies.

Client Profile: Northeastern University - Lobbying

Northeastern University initially attempted to deploy surveillance sensors in its privacy lab without adequate notice or consent, a move that evoked comparisons to authoritarian monitoring and repressive technology practices. Faced with vocal protest from graduate students and internal concerns, the university quickly retracted the measure by removing the sensors. This corrective action improved its stance on privacy and resistance to invasive monitoring, earning a positive score in the Technology and Services Impact category.

Northeastern Backs Down on Surveillance in Privacy Lab