Follow the Money: The Podcast

In this insightful discussion, investigative reporter Simon van Dorpe, who co-authored a key NATO corruption investigation, shares chilling findings that emerged from cross-border reporting. He reveals the unexpected drop of US charges against four suspects shortly after high-profile arrests, suggesting possible political interference. The conversation dives into the mechanics of kickback schemes in defense contracting and explores Turkey's role in the scandal. Listeners will grasp the wider implications for global anti-corruption efforts and the troubling reliance on US investigations by European nations.

Jesse Pinster, an investigative journalist focused on Hungarian politics, delves into Viktor Orbán's controversial dealings. He reveals how EU funds and state assets are funneled to Orbán’s cronies, highlighting the troubling trend of cronyism shaping Hungary. Jesse discusses the privatization of the defense industry to allies, the opacity that conceals favoritism, and EU struggles to enforce compliance. He also underscores the timing of these asset transfers, especially ahead of elections, which accelerates the pattern of political favoritism.

Olivier van Beemen, an investigative journalist known for his insights on African parks and conservation, dives into a controversial EU-funded project in Congo led by a Belgian prince. He uncovers how over €157 million was spent, revealing setbacks like Bitcoin mining in the rainforest. Van Beemen critiques the militarized protection of wildlife, sheds light on local conflicts, and discusses how colonial legacies influence perceptions of the prince's management. The podcast raises ethical questions about funding and conservation in a fraught context.

Vas Panagiotopoulos, an investigative journalist based in Australia, dives deep into the shadowy world of spyware funding. He reveals shocking insights into how European taxpayers unknowingly finance surveillance companies linked to human rights abuses. The discussion covers the devastating impacts of spyware on journalists and activists, the opaque funding mechanisms, and the alarming lack of oversight. Vas also highlights notorious firms profiting from these subsidies and why governments resist stricter regulations on surveillance practices.

Irene van den Berg, an investigative journalist known for exposing misleading health supplement claims, discusses the rampant false advertising in Europe’s booming health supplement market. Nearly half of evaluated products violate EU rules, with Nestlé leading the charge. Irene shares eye-opening details on the weak enforcement of these regulations, the loopholes used by big companies, and the alarming trend of marketing unhealthy foods alongside dubious supplements. She warns of the financial and health risks consumers face, driven by a culture that craves quick fixes.

Hans Wetzels, an investigative journalist known for his work on industrial fishing in Senegal, joins the conversation to expose how European companies exploit Senegal's rich fishing grounds. He reveals how joint ventures allow these firms to claim Senegalese flags while profits vanish back to Europe. Wetzels shares alarming stories of local fishermen facing declining catches and the impact this crisis has on youth, driving them to migrate. The podcast delves into the intricacies of international fishing agreements and the opaque financial flows that sustain this exploitation.

Investigative journalist James Imam, based in Milan, dives into Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's ambitious but disastrous offshore migrant centers in Albania. He reveals how the project turned into a €70 million mess with spiraling costs and empty beds. Imam discusses the political dynamics between Italy and Albania and the EU's ongoing support despite legal hurdles and human rights concerns. He further highlights the troubling human impact, including tragic outcomes for migrants caught in the flawed system.

Lise Witteman, deputy editor and founder of Follow the Money's Brussels desk, dives into the explosive Pfizergate scandal involving EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen's secret texts with Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla. They discuss the implications of these texts for democracy and transparency, the controversial vaccine deal during the pandemic, and the European Commission's refusal to release the messages. Uncover unanswered questions about pricing and liability while exploring the ongoing quest for accountability in the EU.

Investigative journalist Hazel Sheffield uncovers the hidden empire of Daniel Křetínský, a Czech billionaire with significant influence in Europe. Křetínský's wealth originates from coal, despite receiving EU green subsidies. The discussion dives into his vast interests—media, supermarkets, and energy—and examines the controversial role of biomass in his operations. Sheffield also highlights how Křetínský's concentrated ownership poses risks to political integrity, media influence, and public health around his coal and biomass plants.

Lise Witteman, a deputy editor at Follow the Money, and Hans Wetzels, an investigative journalist covering European environmental policies, dive into the European People's Party's contentious campaign against NGOs. They reveal how the EPP has scapegoated these organizations amid its retreat from the Green Deal. The discussion touches on rising populism, the challenges NGOs face in a hostile political landscape, and the importance of diverse voices in environmental policymaking. Their insights shed light on the fragile balance between politics and civic engagement in Europe.