The Corporate Takeover of Democracy

The podcast episode explores how corporations have gained immense power and influence, effectively infiltrating governments and undermining democratic systems. The host interviews journalist Matt Kennard, who exposes the hidden legal system created by corporations to sue governments for policies that hinder their profits. This system, known as the Investor State Dispute Settlement (ISDS), allows corporations to exert control over national resources and prevents governments from enacting policies in the public interest. Fossil fuel companies sue governments for implementing environmental regulations, and even the Eurostar has sued governments over the refugee crisis. This corporate capture of states and institutions impedes meaningful action on pressing issues like climate change and perpetuates a system where corporations prioritize profit over the well-being of citizens.