Do We Love Inequality?
September 14, 2024
The world is upside down. Are we the ones perpetuating inequality? Are we victims of our own system? It’s clear by now that we are the poorest country in the Kingdom, with alarming disparities. Our Gini Coefficient was 0.42 back in 2012. I wouldn’t be surprised if, during the 2023 census, we quietly avoided measuring it. Under pressure from the Netherlands, we’re being told to address this inequality, starting with enforcing the Balkenende norm to cap top salaries.
What happened next? The top earners were outraged. The directors of failing government-owned companies led the charge, crying foul to parliament. Trailing in their wake were the medical specialists; of course, everyone cried with them—media included. The argument? They studied hard. They deserve it. If we do not pay them more, they will leave for better opportunities elsewhere. The politicians folded. An exception was made for medical specialists, and applause followed.
However, the reaction was quite different when the underpaid and overworked nurses began fighting for their collective labor agreements after years of neglect. Suddenly, they were being criticized. Yet, this workforce is also in high demand abroad, and many have already left for better pay in places like the Netherlands or Bonaire.
We seem to love our high earners and treat them well. When we offer tax breaks, they are designed primarily for the rich, not for the middle class or the poor. Most people earn so little they hardly pay any taxes at all. Energy costs are high, but if you can afford to invest in solar panels, you can profit from energy harvesting. And who has the money to invest in solar panels? The wealthy.
Now, try discussing raising the minimum wage or addressing basic living standards. Watch how quickly you become persona non grata.
Miguel Goede
Comments