Corporations carry out some of the most horrific human rights abuses of modern times, but it is increasingly difficult to hold them to account.

Economic globalization and the rise of transnational corporate power have created a favorable climate for corporate human rights abusers, which are governed principally by the codes of supply and demand and show genuine loyalty only to their stockholders.

Though it isn't easy, we can check the power of corporations—and citizens around the world are stepping up to do it.

Global Exchange developed this 2012 list of some of the world’s worst corporate abusers to illustrate that on issues as diverse as assassination, torture, kidnapping, environmental degradation, huge campaign donations, violently repressing political rights, releasing toxins into pristine environments, destroying homes, discrimination, and causing widespread health problems, the companies below play a big role. Now we need you to take action!

This list of “MOST WANTED” corporate criminals gives you information about the abusive behavior of this year’s worst corporations, tells you who is responsible, and how to connect with and support people who are doing something about it.

The more you know, the less these corporations can continue their abuses out of public eyesight: so share this information with your friends, get on the phone with the CEOs themselves, and exercise your rights as a global citizen and consumer today.

So, what corporations made the list? Find out.

Our thanks goes to Kelly Cook who provided invaluable research support to this project.

Sincerely,