The reported figures for campaign contributions and lobbying expenses indicate significant corporate political activity. From an anti-fascist perspective, such involvement raises concerns over corporate influence on policy, which can undermine democratic accountability and potentially support authoritarian interests by prioritizing corporate benefit over public welfare.

Thermo Fisher Scientific Profile: Summary

The article outlines Thermo Fisher Scientific's proactive approach to supply chain ethics through a robust Supplier Code of Conduct and a Supplier Diversity program. This commitment to ensuring human rights, fair labor practices, and equal opportunity among suppliers supports progressive labor and ethical sourcing practices, aligning with anti-fascist values that reject exploitation and promote diversity.

Global Supply Chain

By discontinuing sales of its human DNA identification technology to Chinese police in Tibet, Thermo Fisher is reducing the risk that its technology will be used for mass surveillance and repression. However, because the decision only covers specific regions rather than all potential abuses, there remains room for a more comprehensive ethical approach.

US Company Must Stop Supplying China’s Regime with DNA Surveillance Tech

The disclosed lobbying activities, tracked over time and including efforts in 2024, reflect the company's use of political influence. From an anti-fascist perspective, such corporate lobbying can undermine democratic accountability and elevate corporate interests above those of the public, contributing to a negative influence on democratic processes.

Thermo Fisher Scientific Profile: Lobbying

The statement outlines rigorous supply chain due diligence, including third-party audits, supplier risk assessments and enforceable Supplier Code of Conduct, which collectively demonstrate a strong commitment to ethical sourcing and mitigating human rights risks.

PDF Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. Human Rights and Modern Slavery Transparency Statement 2023

The substantial lobbying expenditure of $2,080,000 in 2023 indicates an active engagement in influencing political processes. Such political spending can be associated with efforts that ultimately reinforce existing power structures and may indirectly support authoritarian policies, making it a negative action from an anti-fascist perspective.

Thermo Fisher Scientific Issues Lobbied

The detailed outline of supplier due diligence, centralized procurement practices, third party screening platforms, and contractual requirements for suppliers underscores the company’s commitment to ethical supply chain practices. These initiatives ensure that suppliers adhere to standards that minimize risks of modern slavery and human trafficking.

Modern Slavery Statement

The reported PAC contributions, totaling $225,359, were allocated to a mix of candidates from both major parties, including some Republicans with tendencies towards authoritarian policies. This level of political spending by Thermo Fisher Scientific reflects a willingness to engage in political processes that may undermine anti-fascist values by potentially supporting authoritarian-leaning candidates.

Thermo Fisher Scientific PAC Contributions to Federal Candidates

The decision reflects a responsible business practice by addressing ethical concerns and responding to pressure from investors and human rights advocates, thereby upholding ethical standards in its operational practices.

Thermo Fisher ceases DNA kit sales in Tibet over human rights concerns

The halt in sales prevents the potential misuse of Thermo Fisher’s technology for mass surveillance in a politically sensitive region. This action reduces the risk that its products will fuel repressive practices, thereby positively impacting the technology and services domain.

US biotech company halts sales of DNA kits in Tibet, as lawmakers mull more export controls on China

The letter highlights the potential use of Thermo Fisher's DNA sequencers in mass surveillance operations linked to human rights abuses in Tibet, suggesting that the technology provided may be serving repressive state functions. This represent a troubling use of technology that could aid authoritarian surveillance efforts.

Commissioners Ask Thermo Fisher if Products Involved in Human Rights Abuses in Tibet

Thermo Fisher Scientific's recorded PAC contributions, although relatively modest at $222,111, indicate participation in the political funding arena. In an anti-fascist perspective, any corporate involvement in political contributions can risk undue influence on democratic processes. Here, while no direct link to far-right or authoritarian candidates is evident, the involvement in political funding raises concerns about potential indirect support to broader authoritarian influences through lobbying activities.

PAC Profile: Thermo Fisher Scientific • OpenSecrets

By ceasing sales of technology that can be used for mass surveillance and human rights abuses, Thermo Fisher takes a notable step towards reducing the risk of supporting authoritarian practices. This action contributes positively to the responsible use of technology, although its limited geographic scope raises concerns regarding the overall commitment to human rights.

Thermo Fisher’s Necessary, But Insufficient, Step in China