Is a Basic Income Feasible in Europe?

Abstract

A basic income policy, whereby individuals receive unconditional, regular payments regardless of their income, wealth or economic activity, has been a long-held goal for many. Increasing discussions among a variety of stakeholders and evidence of concrete actions in many European states suggest its time may have come. Yet there is also resistance, and the feasibility of such a policy is subject to significant constraints, both in terms of implementation and achievement of desired outcomes. We use data on campaigns, political support and pilot studies from a variety of sources to assess the likely feasibility of a basic income policy in the European Union. The emerging pilots and other concrete actions suggest that there have been important, if fragile, steps forward. We suggest that while discussion and public statements of support are still a long way from a realisable basic income policy, the pressures for radical and innovative reforms of the welfare state mean that basic income will remain a relevant solution for elements of current and future labour market challenges.