The German Social Democratic Party (SPD) has welcomed remarks from Jens Spahn, parliamentary group leader of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), regarding wealth inequality in Germany and the potential for inheritance tax reform following a forthcoming ruling by the Federal Constitutional Court.
SPD General Secretary Tim Klüssendorf described the current situation as an “extreme injustice” in a statement to the “Rhinische Post”. He highlighted that approximately €400 billion is inherited annually in Germany, with only a small fraction subject to taxation. This, he asserted, creates a “massive imbalance” which has been criticized for some time.
Klüssendorf argued that it would be equitable for billionaires to contribute to the costs of the country’s public services. He addressed potential opposition, stating that accusations of targeting inherited family homes were unfounded and that the focus was not on the middle class.
Spahn’s recent comments, made during a television program, acknowledged wealth distribution as a problem and referenced the expected Constitutional Court ruling, which he said may necessitate inheritance tax reform.
Klüssendorf expressed hope that Spahn’s stance could lead to collaborative efforts toward greater tax fairness, highlighting the SPD’s proposals for taxing multimillionaires and billionaires to bolster the nation’s progress. He emphasized the importance of collective responsibility and social cohesion and indicated the SPD’s readiness for discussions on the matter.