SPD Divisions Emerge as Calls for inheritance Tax Reform Grow
The SPD is facing internal pressure to address wealth inequality, with both its left-wing youth organization, the jusos, and the more conservative seeheimer Kreis pushing for reforms to inheritance and gift taxes. This comes amidst ongoing debate about potential cuts to social welfare programs.
According to reports from the editorial Network Germany (RND), the Jusos argue that the growing gap between inherited wealth and earned income poses a basic threat to Germany’s democratic foundations. Thier submission warns that this disparity erodes trust in democracy and necessitates “consistent class struggle.”
The Seeheimer Kreis highlights that over half of all private wealth in germany is now derived from inheritance or gifts,a trend that is accelerating. they contend this system perpetuates inequality of opportunity, fuels social division, and breeds resentment.
SPD parliamentarians parsa Marvi and Philipp Rottwilm, who authored the Seeheimer Kreis paper, argue the current system unfairly burdens smaller inheritances while allowing large corporate assets to be transferred with minimal tax. They propose that substantial inheritances should be used to secure jobs and companies, and provide targeted relief to families. Marvi urged the governing coalition to prioritize this reform, while Rottwilm advocated for a universal company pension scheme.
Juso leader Philipp Türmer criticized the coalition government for failing to deliver on promises of social justice, stating they are ”dancing around many construction sites.” He called for a stronger, more assertive social democracy and acknowledged the need for the Jusos to critically examine the SPD’s recent trajectory.