[M2Ys4U]

ESA is a step removed from public funding when compared to NASA.

NASA is directly accountable to the US Congress, both in terms of the appointment of its director and its budget.

ESA is an IGO, and its Director-General is appointed by consensus amongst the member states, and its budget is set by them based on national contributions as well.

Not to mention that most also have their own space agencies (of varying capabilities). Even the EU has EUSPA, separate to, but collaborating with, ESA.