Global Issues TED Prize

Video: Smile if you’d like to end anonymous companies

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[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N1O97HZev7A&w=586&h=330]

Transparency isn’t just a nice-to-do for businesses. It’s essential, says Charmian Gooch, the anti-corruption crusader who accepted the TED Prize tonight. On the TED2014 stage, Gooch revealed her wish for the world. “My wish is for us to know who owns and controls companies, so that they can no longer be used anonymously against the public good,” she said in a powerful talk. “Let’s ignite world opinion, change the law, and together launch a new era of openness in business.”

Gooch—and her organization Global Witness—is launching a public campaign to end the practice of anonymous companies. They created this animation to illustrate what can happen when there’s no reporting on who is profiting from a business’ operation. While the video is called “The Grin,” it’s no laughing matter.

Watch the video and share it widely. And below, many more resources where you can read up on corruption and how to turn the tide: