Could a Soccer Tax Help Educate the World's Poor?

by Mike Smith · 2009-12-03 11:27:00 UTC
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Soccer could help two million children around the world receive education. That's the basis of a United Nations appeal to FIFA. They're asking the international soccer association to consider placing a levy on all sponsorship deals in order to raise $48 million year. A "Better Future" levy of 0.4% on broadcast and sponsorship revenues from five European leagues and next years World Cup would be enough to raise the necessary money.

FIFA already supports education projects, but the UN now wants it to step up and fund more projects. "This is a small price to pay for giving half a million children each year the chance for an education that could transform their lives," explained Kevin Watkins, director of Unesco's forthcoming Education for All report. The English Premier League might not be so willing to fund the effort as they already donate 14 per cent of their revenues to good causes, whilst FIFA explained that they already contribute 0.4 per cent. FIFA explain that money isn't enough and that by simply raising awareness through their international profile, they're doing more than money can buy. But a little extra wouldn't hurt too much would it?

With Christiana Ronaldo moving to Real Madrid from Manchester United for a massive $72.7 million earlier this year, $48 million to educate two million of the world's poor doesn't seem like such a huge ask.

Photo credit: Marlon.net

Mike Smith
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