Big Business, Poor Peoples

Transnational corporations are one of the most important actors in the global economy, occupying a more powerful position than ever before. In their persistent battle to increase profits, they have increasingly turned to the developing world, a world that holds many attractions for them. But what is their impact on the poor? Now in its second edition, "Big Business, Poor Peoples" finds that these corporations are damaging the lives of millions of poor people in developing countries. Looking at every sector where transnational corporations are involved, this vital book is packed with detail of how the poor are affected.The book exposes how many of the natural resources of developing countries are being ceded to transnational corporations and how governments are unwilling or unable to control corporations who answerable to no one but their shareholders. The author argues that transnational corporations have used their money, size and power to influence international negotiations and that they have taken full advantage of the move towards privatisation to influence the policies of governments. Sovereignty, he concludes, is passing into corporate hands and the poor are paying the price. But people are fighting back. Citizens, workers, communities, are exposing the corporations and looking for alternatives. The first edition of this path-breaking book put the issue of transnational corporations and the poor firmly on the agenda. This second edition contains significant new and updated material and is an essential read for anyone who wants to know more about the effects of corporate power on the poor.