For this reason, the first seminar of the Europeans for Financial Reform initiative will look in detail at how we can make a financial transaction tax a reality. The seminar will take place on 15th March 2010 in the Solvay library in Brussels, and will be co-organized by the Global Progressive Forum and the Foundation for Europeans Progressive Studies.
 
Although there is an unprecedented groundswell of support for the FTT – among citizens, civil society and progressive politicians - this has not been mirrored by concrete action at G20 level. This seminar aims to embolden you, our allies and opinion-shapers, to further generate political momentum towards the realization of this essential instrument for the global financial system.
 
14.00 - 15.30: Panel I: “Putting the global financial transaction tax on the global political agenda. How and why?”
 
People are angry at the global financial system and they have every right to be. The growing awareness that much of the financial market activity is socially useless has put the spotlight on speculators. The question people are asking is a simple one; “what do the speculators contribute to society?” The FTT resonates with people as that rare concept: a popular tax.
 
While addressing these political concerns, the first panel of international politicians and experts will be invited to comment on the international political agenda and answer some key political questions that remain open: Why do we need a financial transaction tax? What should be its main characteristics? Should the scope of the FTT be global, regional or domestic? And perhaps the key question people want answered; what will the money be spent on?
 
15.30 - 17.00: Panel II: “How can it function?”
 
The second panel of experts and politicians will address the practical implementation of the FTT. What should be taxed? What is the right size for the tax? How can such a tax be collected? Is the financial tax too complicated to put in place? How can tax evasion be addressed by the FTT? How has it been put in place in other parts of the world? What lessons to draw form past experiences?