skattereformers

Skattereformers are a coalition of policymakers, academics, and civic activists primarily active in Sweden, who advocate for fundamental changes to the nation's tax system. The movement emerged in the early 2010s as a response to perceived inefficiencies and inequities in Sweden’s progressive tax regime. Its founding members included economists, such as Professor Anders Holmberg, and former senior officials from the Swedish Tax Agency, who sought to simplify tax filing, reduce corporate tax rates, and introduce broader use of digital technology in tax administration.

The core philosophy of skattereformers centers on the belief that a streamlined tax framework can enhance economic competitiveness, foster entrepreneurship, and encourage greater compliance. They argue that lowering marginal tax rates on high earners would stimulate investment and job creation, while a more transparent system would minimize tax avoidance. They also support a phased reduction of payroll taxes, arguing that lower labor costs could increase employment and reduce the reliance on subsidies.

Politically, the movement has influenced policy debates in the Swedish Parliament, contributing to the 2016 tax reform bill that lowered the corporate tax rate and implemented a digital tax portal. Critics, however, argue that skattereformers’ proposals disproportionately favor corporations and wealthy individuals, potentially eroding the redistributive function of taxation and widening income inequality. Some tax watchdogs have expressed concern that reduced tax revenue could constrain public services such as healthcare and education.

Despite controversy, skattereformers continue to be an active voice in Sweden’s tax policy discourse, promoting reforms they believe will modernize the tax system and align it with contemporary economic realities. Their ongoing work includes research papers on tax efficiency, public forums, and collaborations with international organizations to benchmark best practices.