Rhineland-Palatinate’s Minister-President Alexander Schweitzer has called for a renewed focus on the taxation of high-net-worth individuals, sparking debate within Germany’s political landscape. In comments to the Tagesspiegel, Schweitzer argued that those with substantial wealth – derived from assets, stocks and large inheritances – are currently taxed at a disproportionately lower rate compared to wage earners.
He suggested a broader consensus should be reached, even between the Social Democratic Party (SPD) and the Christian Democratic Union/Christian Social Union (CDU/CSU), to increase the financial contributions of multi-millionaires and billionaires.
Schweitzer referenced Germany’s tax rates in the 1980s and 1990s, under a conservative government, highlighting a peak income tax rate of 56 percent and the now-abolished wealth tax. He asserted that these higher rates did not negatively impact the German economy or foster a socialist environment.
The Minister-President framed increased taxation of the wealthy as a matter of civic responsibility and democratic principle, suggesting that individuals with significant financial security have a greater obligation to contribute to society. He encouraged the CDU to embrace a similar philosophy to that of former Chancellor Helmut Kohl.
Schweitzer also welcomed the coalition government’s commitment to reduce taxes for low and middle-income earners during the current legislative period, acknowledging public anticipation for such measures.
