The U.S. is the world's bribery cop. Is that about to change?

Planet Money

2025/06/20

Overview Shownote Highlights Transcript Chapters Pins

Shownote

The U.S. has been policing bribery all over the world for nearly half a century using a law called the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act. But now, President Trump has said that this anti-corruption law is crippling American businesses. Since taking office, his...

Highlights

This episode delves into the complexities of global anti-corruption efforts through the lens of the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA). It examines a high-profile case against Glencore, a multinational commodities trading company accused of bribery, and explores how changes in enforcement under different administrations impact international business practices.

00:00

In 2011, South Sudan declared independence and Glencore arrived with cash.

09:50

Bribery was initially seen as a way to facilitate business but led to political upheaval and economic harm.

22:11

Glencore was fined over $1.1 billion and required to have compliance monitors.

Chapters

How Did Glencore Bribe Its Way Into South Sudan?

00:00

Why Was the FCPA Created Amidst Corporate Scandals?

06:49

What Happened When Glencore Got Caught and Rules Changed?

15:50

Transcript

Erika Beras: This is Planet Money from NPR. Amanda Aronczyk: Now, this doesn't happen very often. But back in 2011, the world welcomed a new country, the Republic of South Sudan. Erika Beras: A nation is born, seen in South Sudan, is nothing less than el...