Guy Pearse’s article posits a grandiose conspiracy theory that two philanthropists are directing the policy agendas of a vast spread of Australian NGOs and research organisations (‘Comment’, September). Worse still is the potential chilling impact on other philanthropists who may be made more reluctant to support climate action if they feel they will be exposed to similar unsubstantiated attacks. I unashamedly hold a view that NGOs shouldn’t just oppose governments, but work with them when they are taking action towards common objectives. The same is true for business and other community groups. That does not, and has not, constrained me from criticism where I see it due. The Climate Institute has never in my experience prioritised a partisan agenda. Our strategy and policy directions are determined by a board with scientific, policy and communications expertise and representatives with cross-partisan backgrounds.
John Connor
CEO, The Climate Institute, Sydney, NSW
