auxiliary organization; affiliated body; fringe organization
Refers to an organization that is closely related to and often supports a larger parent organization, typically a government ministry or major corporation, but is legally separate. Often used in political and bureaucratic contexts.
The foundation was established as an auxiliary organization of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology.
外郭団体の役員には官僚の天下りが多い。
Many executives of affiliated bodies are former bureaucrats who have parachuted into the positions.
This foundation is an affiliated body of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.
A former bureaucrat took a post at an affiliated body after retirement.
The city established a new affiliated body.