The Usurper:As I understand it, the Bilderberg group started in the early 50's and did so to counter the anti-American sentiment in Europe.  As for secretive, that's true.  They do meet in secret.  But could it be that they don't want what they do say to be misconstrued (as the press does so well) and they don't want things taken out of context.  Also, since what is said in there could have international political ramifications, it's not surprising that they want to protect the need to speak freely without the fear that some reporter with a desire to break a big story will take their words and create an international crisis.

I'm just saying that there are several reasonable explanations for most situations.  Conspiracy is just one.  You may be right in your analysis.  But it's not an obvious conclusion.