PSI Holds Trade Union Tax Forum

The 2023 Trade Union Tax Forum, held in Berlin on 14-15 November saw participants from over 40 countries come together to share tax policy perspectives, explore areas of convergence and plan future advocacy activities.

In breakout sessions, participants discussed how to shape the debate on tax areas such as wealth and inheritance taxes and the financial transaction tax.

Panel discussions with international tax negotiators from delegations including the Netherlands, USA and Inida gave attendees unique insight into the progress of discussions at global forums such as the OECD and the United Nations.

The second day saw allies from Civil Society such as OXFAM and the South Center join to discuss how to broaden coalitions and build strategies in collaboration with local actors to influence global tax debates.

The event also enabled unionists to exchange views with high-level German officials including the Director for International Taxation, Finance Ministry.

The involvement of unions in shaping the global tax agenda has been key to achieving major advancements including the Global Reporting Initiative's new tax standard, proposals from the UN to advance international negotiations on tax policy, and the unprecedented (though unambitious) G20/OECD global tax deal.

PSI has been at the forefront of the global tax justice movement throughout this period, building coalitions and bringing unions together to push for meaningful tax reforms which ensure corporations and the wealthy are made to pay their fair share for public services and the vital changes needed to address the climate crisis.

The forum was organised with the support and collaboration of Friedrich Ebert Stiftung and the Network of Unions for Tax Justice. The Network, established by PSI less than a year ago, already includes 68 members from 26 countries and representation from the global labour movement. For unions interested in being involved, please email spicard@progressivepolicies.eu

Why Tax is A Union Issue
Forum Participant Perspectives

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Ludovic Voet - ETUC

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Perpetual OFORI AMPFOLO - Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association

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Helene Davis WHYTE - Jamaica Association of Local Government Officers

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Beate Gassner - Austrian Trade Union Federation