Universal Basic Income Definition

Universal Basic Income (UBI) is an innovative strategy some countries propose, in which a basic income is available for all. It is a no-strings-attached basic income to ensure needs are met for all individuals (Schroder, et al, 2023). There are overlaps with some social welfare systems globally, but UBI is available to everyone in contrast to such payments. Most importantly, there are no conditions to receive it, such as looking for work or other commitments. One of the benefits is freeing up innovative capacity, whilst we are becoming more automated. Another is addressing social issues connected to living standards and everyone having access to basic resources and well-being (Bidadanure, 2019). As argued by some, a drawback is the larger economic impacts which are not yet fully known. 

UBI Regional Differences between global north and south

There are regional differences to consider such as between the global north and south. To effectively implement UBI, the economy must be strong enough and sustainable (Banerjee, et al, 2019). Many countries within the global south have large rural communities that live in a subsistence way. Many of these communities are also living in poverty. Other economic factors may need to be addressed before UBI can be implemented across all countries (Banerjree, et al, 2019). There is, however, the possibility to mitigate the extremes of poverty with UBI (Howson, et al, 2022). UBI has the potential to mitigate the huge divide between the richest and poorest percentile of the population, which is a central argument made in its favour. This also must occur within the parameters of other sustainable social policy approaches if it is to be successful (Avery, 2025). 

Universal Basic Income faces challenges in the Global South.
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Universal Basic Income Trials

There have been many UBI trials, across Europe, the United States, the United Kingdom, Namibia, India, and Kenya. The largest national example however was in Finland. Owing to the smaller sample sizes of these trials it is difficult to give a realistic projection of the potential benefits or failures of this initiative. This is owing to the array of systemic influences that may impact its success, connected to macroeconomics and broader political, social, and, economic factors within the broader context of a nation’s economy. Despite this, the test runs showed some positive impacts. Labour supply, in particular, increased amongst younger adults when UBI was implemented (Paz-Banez, et al, 2020).

On a broader level, nations with effective social welfare policies similar to UBI, in terms of obligation-free unemployment support, result in improved mental health and well-being. This increases the capacity to mitigate crime rates compared to regions where these safety net systems don’t exist (Rudolph, et al, 2020). The same has been highlighted, specifically for UBI, as a means to mitigate psycho-social stressors and social disadvantage (Rashmi, et al, 2021).

UBI has been trialled within the Global North and South.
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Universal Basic Income Benefits and Drawbacks

It is clear from other working examples of broader social welfare strategies that government support payments for the unemployed have both positive and negative impacts. The impact of being mandated to look for work or undergo obligations to receive payments can be demeaning, when this is not mandated but voluntary, it can instead be a meaningful pursuit (Kampen, et al, 2018). Consequentially this will add value to society by increasing voluntary activity participation whilst increasing individual well-being. The same could be seen in the Finland case study, in which individuals sought to volunteer and give back through this means.

Most people desire to give back to society and contribute meaningfully in some capacity in order to feel fulfilled and attain well-being (Blustein, et al, 2022). Hence voluntary engagement can be the answer. This can pave the way for more innovative ways to support society, through additional work or volunteering as demonstrated in Finland (Skeyi, et al, 2024). It can act as a means for more effective output, and serious, efficient contributions can be made without people working purely out of obligation. This is as a result of their basic needs already being met.

Debates Continue as to any Potential Drawbacks.
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How UBI helps thrivability and Community Well-being 

There are many threats to civil liberties and human rights in society, ranging from economic to social. Universal Basic Income is one way of ensuring that both big businesses and governments have less impact on the most basic civil liberties. These include access to resources for living, such as housing without the threat of homelessness owing to guaranteed income and safe employment (Shroder, et al, 2023). This minimises psycho-social stressors to create a more thrivable society (Rushmi, et al, 2021). 

Universal Basic Income and education

Universal Basic Income can also highlight the need for greater investment in education and the creation of new roles and training for new jobs in which individuals will want to participate. Case studies have shown that education, training, and entrepreneurship have been prioritised for individuals receiving UBI (Skeyi, et al, 2024).

UBI Trials Have Showcased Interest by Recipients in Furthering Education.
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Poor treatment of workers (differing sectors)

Low-paid, and unskilled roles often see the mistreatment of workers. There is a consistent trend across many countries whereby unskilled workers are bullied, abused, or generally mistreated (Maheen, et al, 2022; Tuckey, et al, 2022). A stark contrast exists in this regard to those with higher skills or in in-demand areas (Lange, et al, 2019). Unskilled roles are also paid far less, showcasing significant ethical issues within these workplaces. UBI mitigates the issue of predatory employers mistreating workers. Individuals can say no to low-income, insecure jobs that may be exploitative. UBI provides the opportunity for individuals to pursue engaging work to increase their income. There is no threat of labour shortage despite this, based on empirical studies reviewing case studies (Paz-Banez, et al, 2020).

A Thrivable Framework

UBI links to Values-Based Innovation, a core Foundational Focus Factor within The Thrive Framework. Workplaces should be driven by values and innovative approaches, to ensure environmental and social well-being are adhered to. UBI facilitates this by challenging the traditional notion of employment where employees are not necessarily valued as contributing individuals. By ensuring work isn’t mandatory, UBI has the impetus to ensure that those who do actively undertake employment are recognised, and are afforded greater well-being and protections in conducting their work, whilst there is a strong safety net if they do lose or choose to leave their job. 

Achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

UBI links to SDG8 in particular, as well as SDG1 and SDG10. Whilst economic growth and decent work are not specifically linked to UBI, it can mitigate issues regarding lack of decent work, and prompt better workplaces where employers cannot exploit the most unskilled and low-paid workers. SDG1 is addressed by reducing poverty, as long as other macroeconomic factors are also addressed. SDG10 is relevant owing to UBI mitigating inequalities.

SDG8, SDG1, & SDG10 are Particularly Relevant to UBI.
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Focusing on the benefits of UBI moving forward

Whilst there may be many instances in society in which civil liberties can be breached, UBI mitigates the most immediate financial threat to well-being. This is achieved by eradicating the threat of losing access to basic needs such as food and clothing. It also protects, to a greater degree, access to shelter and accommodation. Whether UBI is distinct from effective welfare systems, or overlaps with those most effective, the core idea of UBI is that it can create a thrivable life. UBI enables greater innovation and freedom for individuals to give back to society without obligatory expectations to work which may not be innovative or values-driven.

Conclusion and Call to Action (CTA)

UBI is one approach to enable better workplace well-being and ensure income protection for all. Other approaches must also mitigate adverse standards in the workplace. UBI is vital to enable the easy access of basic needs for all individuals. UBI is an innovative, values-based approach that governments should endorse to mitigate many social issues. It can increase the creative output of individuals looking to contribute meaningfully as part of values-based innovation. 

THRIVE Project recognises the need for strong environmental and social values-based innovation. THRIVE Project also advocates such approaches for governments and businesses to adopt. You can do the same by supporting such proposals as well as reaching out to your local governing body. To learn more about similar issues that THRIVE Project investigates, you can read our articles and white papers. You can also listen to our podcasts, or watch our Webinars.