The social elevator does not admit the poor
Despite a decrease in unemployment, a significant portion of the Catalan workforce lives in precarious conditions, highlighting issues in social mobility and taxation policies.
The article discusses the growing economic inequalities in Catalonia, where 42.4% of the active population is reportedly living in precarious situations, despite the overall decrease in unemployment. The political party Junts per Catalunya, which has been criticized for its pro-business tax policies, has suggested lowering the maximum income tax rate and repealing inheritance taxes. They argue that such measures will benefit both citizens and businesses, positioning these policies as essential for economic growth.
During a recent debate in the Catalan Parliament, Junts per Catalunya highlighted what they see as a malfunctioning social elevator, a metaphor for social mobility, suggesting that reducing taxes would give more "air" to individuals and companies. However, this argument has been met with criticism, especially given the party's alignment with pro-oligopoly stances that protect large energy businesses from taxes. The piece calls this contradiction into question, drawing historical parallels to Martin Luther's support for certain elites, underscoring a long-standing conflict between the rich and the poor in societal structures.
Ultimately, the article stresses the paradox of discussing social mobility in a context where policies are being implemented that could potentially deepen inequality. The implications of the proposed tax reforms indicate a shift in focus toward liberating the market under the guise of helping the populace, but it raises questions about the real beneficiaries of such policies and whether they will contribute to social justice or merely entrench existing disparities.