Marlene Engelhorn protests in Davos, advocating for taxing the superrich and redistributing her inheritance.
She explained to Business Insider why she’s against the annual meeting. As the wealthy gathered in Switzerland, hundreds of protesters blocked traffic, waving signs that read “Economy for all” and “Tax the rich.”
Marlene, who comes from a family that founded BASF, was marching through the streets, pushing for higher taxes on the ultra-wealthy. She pointed out that while billionaires chat with world leaders, the people affected by their decisions are left out.
She feels the rich already have too much power. Marlene said it’s ironic that the World Economic Forum is held in the Swiss Alps, guarded by military and police, while real decisions aren’t being made.
After inheriting about $27 million from her grandmother, she decided to give it away. She invited random Austrians to help her figure out how to share her wealth. Fifty people were chosen to decide how to distribute the money through her initiative called the “Good Council for Redistribution.”
Last June, they decided to give around $27 million to 77 charities, including women’s shelters and climate organizations. The biggest chunk, about $1.75 million, went to an environmental group.
Marlene has been vocal about taxing the wealthy more. She even called for a 90% tax on her inheritance. She’s also the founder of a group called Tax Me Now, which pushes for higher taxes on the rich.
She pointed out the close ties between wealth and politics in the US, noting that many in the new government are billionaires. “They’re so far away from the actual population,” she said, highlighting the disconnect.
