Attac

Attac, short for Association pour la taxation des transactions financières et l’aide aux citoyens, is an international advocacy network focused on economic justice, democracy and sustainable development. Founded in 1998 in France by economists, activists and civil society groups, Attac operates as a decentralized federation of national sections that coordinate global campaigns.

A central objective is the implementation of a genuine financial transactions tax, commonly called a Tobin tax, to curb speculative capital flows, raise revenue for public goods, and reduce volatility in financial markets. Attac also promotes progressive taxation, transparent governance of international financial institutions, debt relief for developing countries, consumer and labor rights, and corporate accountability.

Activities include public education, policy advocacy, petitions, demonstrations, and participation in international forums. The network supports campaigns at national and local levels, collaborates with labor unions, NGOs, and social movements, and publishes research and briefing papers.

Attac spread from France to dozens of countries and developed a global presence with hundreds of local associations. It is not a political party; it positions itself as a citizen-based movement that seeks to influence policy through activism and dialogue rather than electoral politics.

Reception and impact are mixed. Proponents credit Attac with elevating discussions on tax justice and financial reform, including debates around financial transaction taxes in Europe. Critics argue that a single tax on financial transactions could have limited effectiveness or unintended economic consequences and that the movement sometimes overlaps with broader anti-globalization currents.