Basic Income Year: A Potential Solution for a Better Working World?
The Basic Income Network, a non-profit organization based in Berlin, has proposed a radical solution to the challenges of the modern working world: a legal right to a year-long basic income. This would provide individuals with a guaranteed income of €1,500 per month, regardless of their employment status.
How would it work?
The network suggests financing the program through wealth taxes, arguing that those with high financial increases could contribute more. The estimated annual cost for this initiative is approximately €124 billion.
Potential benefits:
Greater social justice: By ensuring a basic income for all, the proposal promotes a fairer society and reduces financial anxieties.
Improved work-life balance: Regular breaks could prevent burnout and allow people to prioritize personal development or caregiving.
Increased trust in institutions: The introduction of a guaranteed income could restore faith in state organizations and their ability to support citizens.
Reduced healthcare costs: By preventing burnouts and allowing people to find more fulfilling jobs, the basic income year could potentially reduce healthcare expenses.
Political feasibility:
While the idea is not yet politically feasible in its entirety, some political parties, particularly those on the left-wing spectrum, have expressed support for a basic income.
Next steps:
The Basic Income Network plans to present their proposal to the Freiburg Institute for Basic Income Studies for scientific evaluation. They will then engage in discussions with political parties, trade unions, and other stakeholders to gain support.
What do you think about the basic income year?
The network invites readers to share their opinions by emailing [email protected] with the subject “Basic income year.”