A recent survey indicates a significant majority of German citizens support increasing inheritance taxes on substantial fortunes. The Forsa Institute, commissioned by “Der Stern” and RTL Deutschland, polled 1,008 individuals via telephone on September 18th and 19th, revealing that 57% believe higher inheritance taxes on large assets are appropriate. Conversely, 38% oppose increasing the tax burden on wealthy heirs, while 5% expressed no opinion.
The findings are particularly notable given recent political discourse surrounding wealth inequality. Following comments by parliamentary group leader Jens Spahn and despite resistance to tax increases from CDU Economics Minister Katherina Reiche, a majority (57%) of CDU and CSU supporters also favor higher inheritance taxes.
Support is significantly stronger among voters aligned with parties positioned to the left of the political center. A commanding 82% of Green party voters, 83% of SPD supporters and 84% of those who support the Left party, advocate for increased inheritance taxes.
Distinctly, the Alternative for Germany (AfD) electorate holds a contrasting view, with 69% against higher inheritance taxes and only 25% in favor. The survey provides a snapshot of public sentiment on a complex economic issue amidst ongoing debate on wealth distribution and tax policy.
