400 Millionaires Ask Governments to Tax Them More

At this year's Davos summit, an unexpected group is calling for wealth taxes: millionaires themselves.

Over 400 wealthy individuals from 24 countries signed a letter asking governments to tax them more. The signatories include Disney heirs Abby and Tim Disney, actor Mark Ruffalo, and real estate mogul Jeffrey Gural.

"The richest 1 percent now own more than 95 percent of the world's population put together," the letter states. "Millionaires like us refuse to be silent. Tax us and make sure the next fifty years meet the promise of progress for everyone."

The letter arrives as the World Economic Forum meets in Davos, where some of history's wealthiest people gather annually. This time, hundreds of their peers are speaking out about growing wealth inequality.

"Tax the super rich," the letter demands. "As millionaires who stand shoulder to shoulder with all people, we demand it. And as our elected representatives, it's your duty to deliver it."

The signatories point to real problems caused by concentrated wealth. Public schools face budget cuts while billionaires launch private space programs. Housing becomes unaffordable as real estate turns into an investment vehicle. Climate solutions stall while profits from fossil fuels soar.

The Ripple Effect

This public stance from wealthy individuals could shift the conversation around tax policy. When millionaires themselves say the system is broken, it becomes harder for politicians to ignore calls for reform.

The letter represents voices from two dozen countries, showing this isn't just an American concern. Wealth concentration affects communities worldwide, and solutions need global cooperation.

These signatories are asking governments to create mandatory tax structures, not relying on voluntary charity. They recognize that real change requires systemic solutions, not individual generosity.

Their message acknowledges what many economists already know: extreme wealth inequality hurts everyone, including the wealthy. Strong public schools, stable communities, and healthy populations benefit society as a whole.

Whether this leads to actual policy changes remains to be seen, but 400 wealthy voices demanding higher taxes on themselves is a remarkable starting point for progress.