The Great Tax Deception: A Tale of Two Systems
Years ago, a judge shared a profound insight that continues to resonate: the interplay between published information, unpublished realities, and the truth as common sense dictates. This forms the backdrop for the following analysis.
The Illusion of Fairness:
The conventional wisdom, championed by the far-left and surprisingly, by the wealthy elite, proclaims that direct taxation is more equitable, favoring the poor over indirect taxation. But is this truly the case?
Unmasking the Reality:
In 2023, Portugal's €56 billion in tax revenue saw a mere €8.6 billion stemming from corporate income tax (IRC). A staggering €47.4 billion originated from personal income tax (IRS) – a situation seemingly applauded by the wealthy.
The far-left's logic lies in the assertion that direct taxes protect the poor, as 46% of Portuguese citizens don't pay IRS due to low incomes. This narrative conveniently ignores a crucial element.
The Elusive Right and the Offshore Enigma:
Those who can easily avoid taxes are rewarded with foundations, tax forgiveness, and, most significantly, offshore accounts scattered globally. Europe alone boasts at least ten easily identifiable tax havens.
An estimated €53 billion in Portuguese capital is hidden in offshore accounts. Meanwhile, the indirect Value Added Tax (VAT) ensnares everyone in every transaction, leaving no escape, regardless of the protection supposedly afforded by direct taxes.
The UN's Telling Silence:
Have you ever seen the UN publish a framework convention on offshore accounts, which have existed since the 1930s? The answer is a resounding no!
While the UN is uniquely positioned to address this global economic malignancy, it prioritizes climate change conventions. One wonders why...
A Stark Conclusion:
The narrative surrounding direct versus indirect taxation is far more complex than it appears. The current system, while seemingly progressive, allows for significant tax evasion by the wealthy, leaving the burden disproportionately on the shoulders of the average citizen. The silence of international bodies only serves to deepen the mystery and perpetuate this inequitable reality.
