Promoting more equitable taxation: Can civic actors help?

This short paper summarizes the key findings of a collaborative project looking at civic actors' role in promoting more equitable taxation across seven countries. Their examples show that effective tax advocacy usually relies on multiple strategies that engage diverse actors—from public officials and legislators to the media and broader civic coalitions. Moreover, progress depends on building robust and convincing narratives around the need for tax reform and deploying different kinds of capacities—for technical analysis, political engagement and compelling communications. Ultimate success often builds on past failures. In this sense, civil society tax advocacy is a long-haul endeavor that requires organizations to have a long-term vision and learn and adapt.