The Paradise Papers

It has been hard to miss in the international press recently an investigation into the use of 'tax havens' by the wealthy.

After extensive research by a number of news agencies, 'The Paradise Papers' illustrate the complex lengths some individuals and companies will go to protect their wealth (and intentionally or not, avoid paying tax in their country of residence).

Initial discussion in the classroom could focus on the impacts of tax avoidance on different countries and the implications of this for services such as healthcare and education. Students could also be encouraged to research more about these papers and how they impact on society; do they feel that the methods used to move money to other countries is 'fair', how could governments ensure that individuals/companies pay their 'fair share?' Should those who participate in these sorts of schemes be criminally charged?

References:

• The New York Times: The Paradise Papers Hacking and the Consequences of Privacy
• The Guardian: Paradise Papers
• BBC News: Paradise Papers: Tax haven secrets of the ultra-rich exposed