NEC News
Podcast on the Power of Neoliberal Networks
In the Bayern 2 series “Radiowissen”, the episode “Die Mont Pèlerin Society – Die Macht eines ökonomischen Netzwerkes” explores the history and influence of an international neoliberal network. The programme describes the Mont Pèlerin Society as a “midwife of neoliberalism” and asks how the network was able to gain political and intellectual influence.
In the interview, Matthias Schmelzer discusses historical developments in neoliberal economic policy and internal debates within the think tank, drawing on his book “Freedom for Capital, not People” (Verso, 2025). The episode refers in particular to his research on exchange-rate regimes and capital mobility within the Mont Pèlerin Society. Political scientist Thomas Biebricher from Goethe University Frankfurt also contributes to the discussion.
The 23-minute podcast episode by author Maike Brzoska was published on 28 May 2026 in the “Wissen” section of Bayern 2.