People Power Strategies to Curtail Corporate Power

How can corporate power be effectively challenged when states struggle to regulate corporations, and companies wield stronger incentives and threats than citizens can exert on governments? Historically, industrial actions and labor movements have been the most effective forces against corporate dominancebut are they the only ones? What roles can other stakeholders beyond trade unions play? This book argues that curbing corporate power, preventing its abuses, and strengthening democracy require strategic people power. By collectively withdrawing cooperation and consent, civil society can disrupt and erode the pillars that sustain corporate influence.

Drawing on nonviolent action theory and social movement research, this book expands the conversation on corporate social responsibility and corporate accountability. It explores how the strategic logic behind the civil rights movement, democracy campaigns, and anti-colonial struggles can guide modern efforts to hold multinational corporations accountable.

This work is essential reading for scholars in corporate social responsibility, labor studies, sustainability, organizational studies, and collective action. It also offers valuable insights for activists, practitioners of nonviolent resistance, and anyone committed to corporate accountability and social justice.

Demonstrates how MNCs can be held accountable for human rights abuses and environmental degradation Discusses the strategy behind people power approaches and civil resistance Explores business and corporate social responsibility through the lens of nonviolence and social movement literature

Autorentext

Dalilah A. Shemia-Goeke is a scholar and practitioner specializing in strategic nonviolent action against corporate power. She completed a PhD at the University of Wollongong, her research focusing on civil resistance, corporate accountability, and labour movements. She bridges theory and practice through education, consultancy, and co-hosting a podcast on civil resistance. She has been a labour organizer and peace worker and is now co-managing director of the German federation for social defence.

Inhalt

Chapter 1: Introduction the roadmap of an explorative journey.- Chapter 2: multinational corporations.- Chapter 3: The strategic logic of nonviolent action.- Chapter 4: Dynamics between nonviolent resisters and corporations.- Chapter 5: The first international nestle boycott noncooperation and the battle over public support.- Chapter 6: The play fair at the olympics campaign naming and shaming is not enough.- Chapter 7: Divestment to erode the power of the fossil fuel industry.- Chapter 8: Connecting the dots and moving forward.- Chapter 9: Conclusion utilising corporate dependence is needed.