Rohkemaks

Rohkemaks is a term commonly used in Estonian-language public finance discourse to refer to policies that increase taxation or broaden the tax base. The word combines rohkem, meaning “more,” with maks, meaning “tax,” yielding a shorthand for higher or more extensive taxation. Because it is not an official policy category, its precise meaning varies with context and speaker.

Definition and scope

In practice, rohkemaks can denote a range of proposals intended to raise government revenue. This may include raising marginal tax rates, reducing or removing tax exemptions, broadening the tax base to cover previously untaxed activities, or introducing new taxes to fund public services. The concept is sometimes used to discuss overall fiscal strategy rather than a single, fixed policy package.

Context and usage

The term appears in political debates, policy papers, and media commentary, particularly in discussions about funding welfare systems, healthcare, education, or climate and infrastructure investments. It is often invoked as shorthand for efforts to increase the state’s revenue capacity, as opposed to spending cuts to achieve budget balance.

Advantages and criticisms

Proponents argue that rohkemaks can improve public services, reduce budget deficits, and promote social equity by increasing resources for redistribution. Critics warn of potential negative effects on economic growth, investment, and work incentives, as well as the administrative and political challenges of implementing broader or higher taxes.

See also

Progressive taxation, wealth tax, tax reform, fiscal policy, public finance.