Working for the common good, building an inclusive and healthy society that protects those in need – making sure everyone pays their fair share.
Greens believe that fairness and solidarity is the fabric of our societies and the basis for a prosperous Europe. We are passionate about developing a Social Europe and support policies to restore social justice, reduce inequality and eradicate poverty. We value the contribution of civic associations and local initiatives in helping those in need and making our European societies what they are: open, diverse and welcoming. It is our aim to strengthen communities and make cities more liveable and likeable for everyone. We want housing to be affordable and cities to be more inclusive. We believe that diverse and Green cities are a precondition for social interaction, cooperation and a healthy life.
Social justice and tax justice go hand in hand; we want to see everyone pay their fair share for the common good. Greens are committed to the fight against tax evasion and tax fraud which harm our societies and lead to an underfunding of our social security systems. What is needed are Green investments in public infrastructure and public goods and services. We need to stop short-sighted austerity policy measures that only increase the pressure to either shut down or privatise essential public facilities, lay off public employees, cut wages and welfare benefits and result in higher financial burden for the next generation.
An increasing number of citizens, especially young citizens, see how their own life chances are decreasing. While many citizens are struggling to make ends meet and secure their living standard, a small group of affluent people and families is even more increasing their wealth, often by questionable speculation on the international financial market and by using tax loopholes. Many people feel economically disenfranchised, not understood by their governments, and estranged by the behaviour of multinational corporations and international banks. This needs to be changed!
