Overview
- Stérin, who testified by videoconference on Thursday, June 4, spent about 90 minutes explaining a métapolitique project he says aims to make France more liberal-conservative.
- He described two philanthropic vehicles—Fonds du bien commun, which funds cultural and social projects, and Périclès, which backs think tanks and circles meant to influence debate without running for office.
- Several senators expressed scepticism about where métapolitique ends and direct politics begins and specifically questioned Politicae, an institute funded by Stérin that is presented as helping mayoral candidates.
- Stérin positioned himself 'at the centre of the right,' voiced support for the 'remigration' of certain migrants, and confirmed he is a Belgium tax resident since 2012 who made his fortune with Smartbox.
- The Senate inquiry continues and could probe legal and transparency boundaries for private foundations because parliamentary summons carry criminal penalties and lawmakers are watching for undisclosed political coordination.