Rethinking Taxation: From Burden to Social Responsibility

Professor Attiya Waris, in a thought-provoking conversation with Professor Odhiambo of the East African Tax and Governance Network, delved into the complex relationship between citizens and taxation. The discussion highlighted why many perceive taxes as a burden rather than a common good.

Prof. Waris pointed out that the challenge began with timing. Most individuals start paying income taxes when they enter the job market, typically around 18-25 years old. By this point, they've already benefited from various government services such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure. However, the disconnect arise because people often fail to recognize these past benefits when they begin contributing financially.

The perception of burden intensifies if citizens don't see immediate or regular returns on their tax contributions. Without visible improvements in public services like healthcare or education, taxpayers may feel they're not benefiting from their contributions.

Prof. Waris emphasized that taxation serves a dual purpose. On a personal level, it's a way of paying for services received. However, on a broader scale, it's a mechanism for societal support. Even those who can afford private services should contribute to public coffers to support those who cannot.This perspective introduces the concept of social responsibility in taxation. It challenges the notion that taxes should only benefit the individual paying them and instead promotes a more community-oriented approach.

The conversation also touched on the subjective nature of community support. People had varying opinions on how much they wanted to help others and who deserved assistance. These differing viewpoints could lead to a rejection of taxation's broader purpose.

Prof. Waris's insights invited a reconsideration of the approach to taxation. By understanding its role in societal development and communal support, the narrative could shift from viewing taxes as a burden to seeing them as an investment in the collective future.This discussion served as a crucial starting point for further dialogue on tax education, policy reform, and fostering a more inclusive understanding of fiscal responsibility among citizens.