The Austrian heiress is looking for 50 people who will help her donate R$133 million

Marlene Engelhorn, activist and relative of the founder of the German chemical company BASF, intends to donate around 90% of her assets with the help of citizens

The name of Marlene Engelhorn it was published in the most prestigious newspapers in the world. This is because the 32-year-old Austrian, born in the city of Vienna, decided to go against the will of her family, indeed, against the will of most super-rich families, and donate much of her fortune.

Marlene Engelhorn is none other than the heiress of Friedrich Engelhorn, the founder of the renowned German chemical and pharmaceutical company BASF. With the death of her grandmother in September 2022, Marlene began to receive the large sum. When she died at the age of 94, Traudl Engelhorn-Vecchiatto, Marlene’s grandmother, had assets valued at 2.4 billion euros. A portion went to the niece in question.

“I inherited a heritage and therefore a power, without having done anything for it […] And the state doesn’t even want taxes.”, Marlene, who is campaigning against the government’s 2008 decision to abolish inheritance tax in Austria, told the BBC. This is one of the few countries in Europe that does not apply the tax.

The heiress selects 50 people to decide the future of the money

Marlene Engelhorn’s idea is to bring together a group of Austrian people who will help her decide the future of the inheritance. 25 million euros will be donated, something very close to 133 million reais, considering the current price. It is worth remembering that, even before her grandmother’s death, knowing that part of her sum would be destined to her, Marlene announced that she would donate at least 90% of her inheritance.

On January 10, Engelhorn mailed 10,000 invitations, randomly, to Austrian citizens. Those interested in remaining in the group must register by phone or online. At the end of the process, 50 people will be selected to participate in a council.

“If politicians don’t do their job and don’t redistribute income, then I myself will have to redistribute my wealth […] Many people struggle to survive with a job and pay taxes on every euro earned from work. I consider it a failure of politics, and if politics fails, the citizens themselves will have to deal with it.”Marlene said, justifying her initiative.

Those selected will participate in meetings in the months of March, April, May and June, to discuss social issues. The meetings will be led by Marlene, as well as academics and social organizations who also fight for more egalitarian and less privileged public policies. Every weekend, participants present will receive 1200 euros.

If the group does not reach a decision that values ​​common sense, the money will go back to Marlene. The heiress’ team also did not say how much money she will keep for herself after the donation.

Source: Terra

Ben

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.