Two-thirds of Germans feel they are excessively burdened by taxes and social contributions, according to a new ARD Deutschland trend survey. The poll, published Wednesday, found that 66 percent of people in Germany hold this view, as reported by polling institute Infratest dimap.
Among respondents of working age, the proportion is even higher at 72 percent. For those over 65, the figure stands at 56 percent. Twenty-eight percent, representing just under one-third of respondents, consider the burden appropriate, while one percent believe it is too low. A further three percent indicated they do not pay taxes or contributions.
Differences can be observed between supporters of different political parties. Among AfD supporters, 87 percent consider taxes and social contributions too high. Only among Green Party supporters does a majority consider their own burden appropriate, at 63 percent.
According to the Deutschlandtrend survey, the idea of raising income tax for higher earners while simultaneously reducing income tax for low and middle incomes would find approval. Seventy-six percent of respondents believe this is the right direction, while 18 percent consider it wrong. Seventy-two percent support higher taxes on alcohol, tobacco, or soft drinks, according to the survey. Twenty-four percent consider this wrong.
Infratest dimap surveyed 1,316 eligible voters for the current Deutschlandtrend. According to ARD, the survey was conducted on Monday and Tuesday.
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