European citizens largely support increased taxation on both wealthy individuals and large multinational corporations. Recent surveys indicate significant backing for minimum tax levels, reflecting growing concerns over social cohesion and fair contribution.
A 2005 Eurobarometer survey revealed that two-thirds of EU citizens favored a tax on the rich, with four in five supporting levies on large multinational companies. Support levels, however, show considerable variation across the continent, influenced by trust in government institutions.
On average, 65% of EU citizens support a minimum wealth tax for the wealthiest individuals. Support is highest in Hungary (78%) and Bulgaria (77%), while it is lower in Czechia (45%) and Poland (48%). Among major economies, Italy, Germany, and Spain show strong support around 69-70%, with France at the EU average of 65%.
Experts attribute differing attitudes to perceptions of inequality. Where social safety nets are perceived as weak and wealth disparities are visible, demand for corrective measures, including higher taxes on the affluent, tends to increase. Conversely, in countries with high trust in existing tax systems, like some Nordic nations, willingness to reintroduce wealth taxes is limited.
Support rises significantly when considering multinational corporations. Across the EU, 80% of respondents agree that large companies should pay a minimum tax in each country they operate. This sentiment is particularly strong in countries like Austria (86%) and Germany (82%).
However, some nations, like Hungary and Latvia, prioritize attracting foreign investment through lower corporate tax rates. This strategy suggests a focus on broader economic benefits, potentially from consumption taxes, rather than direct corporate income tax revenue. Experts note that concerns about international tax coordination can temper support for stricter measures in these economies, with a fear of weakening national competitiveness.