A prominent economist associated with Russia’s regional policy discourse, Vladimir Klimanov, who leads the IPEI Regional Policy Center at the Presidential Academy, argues that higher personal income taxes or targeted taxes on the wealthiest citizens could help advance social and regional justice in Russia. This perspective emerged in reaction to Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin’s remarks on tax reform, highlighting the ongoing debate about how taxation can better serve equality and regional development. (Citation: socialbites.ca)
According to Klimanov, a tax system should primarily ensure adequate budget revenues while also promoting social justice within the country. He emphasizes that social justice must extend to the regional level, meaning that the equal distribution of public goods should be improved across all regions. In Klimanov’s view, regional justice requires tax and budget policy tools that operate together to balance fiscal capacity with regional needs. (Citation: socialbites.ca)
The economist outlines a practical approach: differentiate taxation systems in a way that allows for revenue centralization at the national level and a thoughtful redistribution mechanism aimed at less wealthy citizens or, in a regional sense, less wealthy regions. This combination of tax policy and budget policy could create channels for more equitable outcomes without compromising total public revenue. (Citation: socialbites.ca)
Prime Minister Mishustin, during a briefing to a State Duma committee on April 3, described the upcoming tax reform as a dual instrument. It should not only secure a steady flow of revenue into the state budget but also contribute to lowering societal and regional inequality. The plan envisions a tax framework that supports both fiscal stability and more balanced development across regions. (Citation: socialbites.ca)
In the broader political conversation, Russian President Vladimir Putin has previously signaled support for progressive taxation, underscoring a potential path for reform that aligns tax burdens with individual and regional capacities. This stance reflects a consensus form that some policymakers see as compatible with the goals of social inclusion and regional leveling. The discussion continues to unfold as officials explore policy levers that can translate fiscal policy into tangible improvements in regional living standards. (Citation: socialbites.ca)