What is a basic income?
A basic income is a periodic, unconditional payment sent to individuals from the government.
Different terms are used to describe key characteristics of a basic income. A universal basic income (UBI) describes an unconditional payment made to a broad sector of society, rich or poor, such as all citizens, adults or residents.
A livable Guaranteed Basic Income (GBI), also known as a Basic Income Guaranteed (BIG), establishes an income floor that raises people out of poverty and eliminates the risk of falling into poverty. While universally available, it is income-tested and only delivered to those who need it, regardless of their work status.
“Livable” is used to emphasize the importance of the benefit being sufficient, not just to survive, but to be able to live with dignity and to participate fully in community.
In Canada, most advocate for a livable Guaranteed Basic Income (GBI), a term that emphasizes that the benefit establishes an income floor that is targeted to low-income Canadians or residents, regardless of their work status, that is sufficient to meet basic needs, to live with dignity, and to participate fully in community.
Basic Income: A non-discrimination policy
We advocate for a basic income that is a critical and integral component of a just society.
We recognize that oppression in all its forms – including colonialism, racism, sexism, and paternalism – is deeply embedded and enacted within our society. As a result, vast disparities in income, wealth, and health exist. Pandemics, climate disasters, and now the economic calamity of a trade war with America compound these disparities and shine a harsh and unavoidable light upon these disparities.
Now is the time for systemic and substantive change. In advocating for a livable Guaranteed Basic Income, we work in solidarity with those who demand Indigenous rights, racial equity, gender equity, health equity, food security, climate action, and an end to oppression. A basic income guarantee is a cornerstone of a just and equitable society, and an ecologically sustainable economy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Basic income advocates from Basic Income BC meet regularly with politicians at all levels of government. Coalition Canada basic income- revenu de base has prepared a regularly updated FAQ that summarizes evidence-based answers to their most important and frequently asked questions.
We hope this FAQ will help point you to the evidence on which we can base responsible and productive discussions and decisions about basic income. We encourage you to let us know any concerns, questions, and issues which you would like to discuss. You can email us at basicincomebc@gmail.com.
