Sture Fjäder, the former chairman of Akava, has been vocal in his campaign, claiming that pensioners in Finland face significantly harsher tax rates compared to wage earners. He argues that pensioners are being attacked daily regarding potential cuts to pensions and increases in income taxes. Fjäder's assertion highlights a perceived injustice, prompting him to encourage fellow pensioners to join a new advocacy organization for educated retirees, which he leads.

However, upon examination, Fjäder's claims focus exclusively on income tax rates, neglecting other essential contributions that affect the overall tax burden. He referenced a tax calculator from the Finnish Tax Administration but failed to account for other mandatory payments such as pension and unemployment insurance premiums. When these additional payments are included in the evaluation, the situation is more complex than portrayed by Fjäder.

This discrepancy underscores the need for more nuanced conversations about tax burdens faced by different groups in society. While the concerns raised by Fjäder resonate with many pensioners feeling overlooked, a thorough understanding of the full scope of taxes and contributions is crucial for an accurate assessment of the fairness of the taxation system. The narrative around pensioner taxation requires careful analysis rather than emotional rhetoric.