The reported figures indicate a significant lobbying expenditure relative to political contributions. This level of corporate political spending raises concerns about potential undue influence on policy-making that may undermine democratic accountability and worker rights. Such political engagement, even if transparently reported, can be viewed as aligning with broader corporate strategies that favor elite interests over marginalized communities.

Mondelez International Profile: Summary

The company's expenditure on lobbying, documented by OpenSecrets, indicates a strategic investment in shaping government policy for corporate benefit. From an anti-fascist perspective, such political lobbying can be problematic as it may contribute to undue influence over democratic processes and play into authoritarian dynamics.

Mondelez International Lobbying Profile

Mondelēz International’s detailed disclosure on its political contributions and lobbying activities, including the operation of its Political Action Committee and multi-level internal approval process, indicates a strategic effort to influence policy in favor of its business interests. While the process is compliant and transparent, from an anti-fascist perspective the channeling of corporate funds to influence political outcomes prioritizes corporate power, which can undermine democratic, progressive reforms.

Advocacy and Political Contributions

By maintaining operations in Russia and contributing significant profit taxes to the Kremlin, Mondelēz International is seen as engaging in economic collaboration with an authoritarian regime. This financial involvement is critiqued for bolstering a government accused of war crimes and supporting fascist policies.

Protest at Cadbury World denounces Mondelez’s financial contribution to Russia’s wartime budget

The lawsuit alleges that Mondelez International has engaged in unethical supply chain practices by paying cocoa farmers extremely low wages (as little as $3 per day) and relying on child labor and modern slavery. These practices directly contravene ethical business norms and raise serious concerns regarding the company's commitment to supply chain ethics and human rights.

Mondelez sued over child labor in supply chain

The case also highlights issues in Mondelez’s supply chain ethics, accusing the company of deceptive labeling regarding its 'Cocoa Life' program, which masks its involvement in practices leading to deforestation and perpetuating low wages among cocoa farmers.

USA: Class action lawsuit accuses Mondelez of child labour and deforestation in Côte d'Ivoire contrary to sustainability claims on packaging

By directly engaging with its supplier and issuing a letter to U.S. suppliers with explicit guidelines on human rights and labour practices, Mondelēz International strengthens its ethical supply chain management. These actions serve as a significant improvement in monitoring and maintaining responsible sourcing standards.

Mondelēz International responds to migrant child labour allegations within US supply chains

Mondelez International's lobbying expenditure of $1.36M in 2023 indicates the company’s use of private resources to influence public policy. From an anti-fascist perspective, such corporate political behavior can be seen as a tool to maintain influence over regulatory environments in ways that may undermine democratic processes and support authoritarian tendencies.

Lobbyists - Client Profile: Mondelez International