What About Young People? Why a Basic Income for Young People Matters

Abstract

A basic income (BI) has been discussed and debated for decades. However, very few of these discussions have considered the specific concerns impacting the implementation of a BI for young people. This chapter suggests that the problematising societal constructions of young people will inhibit considerations of an equitable BI being paid to young people16 years and older. This chapter will analyse the discourses and policies which reflect and enable these constructions of young people. It argues that young people are both responsible citizens and rights holders and that a BI paid at the rate equivalent to adults will better enable young people to enact those responsibilities.