As 2025 begins, the conversation in Greece seems to be stuck in a troubling loop. Instead of focusing on addressing the deep-seated economic woes that have left the nation lagging behind Europe, the public discourse has been consumed by the battle for freedom of speech.

Economist Kosmas Marinakis recently shed light on this struggle through his YouTube channel, Greekonomics. In his latest video, Marinakis details how his earlier content about corruption and collusion between power centers in Greece prompted a heavy-handed response, including threats and legal actions.

The video that was removed from YouTube

The "Triangle of Collusion"

In his now-removed video, Marinakis used insights from The Dictator’s Handbook by Smith and Mesquita to explain how collusion operates within the Greek political and economic framework. He outlined how power centers engage in triangular, one-directional transactions, a widely recognized mechanism of corruption supported by ample scientific evidence across economics, accounting, and law.

Marinakis argued that these triangular dealings explain why cartels thrive, why systemic corruption persists, and why citizens are left struggling while media outlets and political parties amass unchecked power. His explanation resonated with over a million viewers, simplifying complex dynamics that many suspected but could not articulate.

The Backlash

The backlash against this video was swift and alarming. Marinakis reports that shadowy attempts to suppress his channel began months earlier, coinciding with the release of another video exposing cartels. The video on corruption, uploaded on December 11, 2024, performed poorly despite its high engagement metrics, leading him to suspect shadow banning.

More disturbingly, on December 16, a close family member of Marinakis experienced direct intimidation. Shortly afterward, a major TV station and a prominent journalist issued legal threats, claiming defamation over the video’s content. Marinakis maintains that neither the station nor the journalist was explicitly named, suggesting that the complaints were a pretext to silence dissent.

The Broader Implications

Marinakis’ ordeal highlights the fragility of free speech in Greece. His experience reveals a pattern of coordinated efforts to stifle independent voices that challenge entrenched power structures. From manipulating algorithms to leveraging legal threats and intimidation, these tactics aim to prevent citizens from gaining a clear understanding of systemic corruption.

This episode also underscores the transformative power of knowledge. As Marinakis notes, “What terrifies them is that knowledge wakes people up.” By connecting the dots between collusion and its real-world consequences, he has empowered ordinary citizens to question narratives propagated by mainstream media.

A Call to Action

The events surrounding Marinakis serve as a stark reminder of the need to safeguard freedom of speech. As he advises, activating notification bells on YouTube channels like Greekonomics is one small way for individuals to bypass algorithmic suppression. But the broader challenge lies in fostering a culture that values transparency, critical thinking, and accountability.

Marinakis’ courage in exposing the “Triangle of Collusion” is a beacon for those committed to building a more equitable and informed society. His case calls for vigilance and solidarity to ensure that voices like his continue to be heard.

Watch his latest video, where he explains the events.