Speaking during an international residence summit in London, the chief executive of Arton Capital, Armand Arton, said proceeds from a foreign investor levy could help governments tackle the refugee problem in Europe.
He said that implementing this initiative would mean high net-worth individuals seeking residency or citizenship in Europe would be contributing to a third-world country’s economy in exchange for a better future for themselves and their families.
Humanitarian benefits
“They benefit socially and economically and so do the countries that welcome them as citizens,” Arton said. “Our clients consistently tell us that they wish to create social and economic advantages for all who share the same dream of a better life.”
He said many of the firm’s clients have said they would be willing to pay such a levy to deliver humanitarian assistance, stability and fund development projects to support refugees.
Sustainable solution
The levy, Arton suggested, would operate on a sliding scale between 1% and 5%, which he claimed could potentially raise more than €250m over an 18-month period, and could therefore be a sustainable solution to the refugee problem.
“This is a broad issue that affects the whole of Europe, but one that has its roots in the home countries of these displaced people. Both the cause and effect require a collective response.”
