Which country imposed a “Witchcraft” tax on some of its citizens?

On January 1, 2011, Romania implemented tax codes that, among other changes, added the occupation of “witch” to the nation’s labor codes. Those charging clients for tarot readings, curses, and blessings were required to pay a 16 percent income tax and make contributions to health and pension programs. The ire of some of the witches was expressed by performing rituals to hex the government.

Since Romania’s entry into the EU, an indigenous folk practice that was once persecuted under communism has come face to face with a global economy. The Romanian “witch tax” is a fascinating study in how the forces of modernity and globalization are shaping an ancient tradition.