Unconditional Basic Income (UBI) is an individual benefit that does not necessitate the accumulation of social security through engagement in the labor market or any other conditions.

Stikado's fundamental argument is not about cost reduction or streamlining of the welfare sector but unconditional economic security for all individuals. UBI should to provide a secure economic foundation for everyone without personal income from employment, even when it is a matter of personal choice. Individuals should be able to choose to be outside the workforce and sustain themselves solely on basic income.

A secure economic foundation entails more than just providing a bare minimum for survival; it involves fostering an economic environment that enables full engagement in society. This encompasses the ability to partake in activities such as travel, joining hobby and craft groups, engaging with NGOs, socializing with friends, maintaining up-to-date technological equipment at home, and participating in educational pursuits and courses.

For UBI to work according to this goal, it needs to be of a considerable size. The EU has defined a poverty line of 60% of the median income relative to the median household income in each country, adjusted for household size and composition. If a household's income falls below this threshold, it is deemed to be "at risk of monetary poverty." Stikado contends that setting the UBI at this level would be appropriate. In this way, each individual's ability to fulfill social, cultural, and other expectations is secured. The introduction of UBI does not replace the need for additional benefits in cases of non-voluntary disengagement from the labor market, such as disability, temporary unemployment, and other special needs.

We hold the right of every individual to an income that provides the possibilities outlined in this document to be an inalienable right, and this is everyone's responsibility, organized through the state. Questions regarding financing, efficiency, labor market participation, supplementary benefits, etc, should all be considered secondary concerns.

Stikado believes that the future societies in which UBI has been implemented, will look back at today’s model in the same way as we look back on feudal societies.

The benefits of Unconditional Basic Income

Introducing an Unconditional Basic Income can have several potential benefits, though the impact can vary depending on how it is implemented. Here are some advantages that we have identified:

1. Poverty reduction: UBI provides a regular, unconditional payment to all individuals regardless of their income level or employment status. This can significantly reduce poverty by ensuring everyone has a minimum level of income to cover basic needs such as food, shelter, and healthcare.
2. Income security: UBI provides a safety net that ensures individuals have a stable source of income, even during times of economic instability or job loss. This can reduce anxiety and insecurity associated with economic and employment fluctuations.
3. Promotion of equality: By providing all people with a basic income, regardless of their socioeconomic background, UBI has the potential to reduce income inequality. It ensures everyone has access to the resources necessary to participate fully in society.
4. Empowering worker’s choice: Introducing a UBI empowers individuals to select jobs based on their personal interests and benefits rather than out of necessity for survival income.
5. Healthier and fairer labor market: Jobs that are not attractive enough need to get better conditions because if not people will simply choose not to do them. This will ensure an overall improvement of the conditions in the labor market.
6. Support for unpaid labor: UBI recognizes the value of unpaid labor, such as caregiving and volunteer work, by providing individuals with a basic income regardless of their employment status. This can promote social cohesion and strengthen communities.
7. Encouragement of entrepreneurship and innovation: UBI can provide individuals with the financial security needed to pursue entrepreneurial projects or invest in education and training. This can encourage innovation and creativity by enabling people to take risks and explore new opportunities without the fear of financial failure.
8. Flexibility in employment: UBI can provide individuals with the freedom to choose employment that best suits their needs, such as part-time work, freelancing, or pursuing further education. This can lead to a more diverse and flexible labor market.

It is important to note that the effectiveness of UBI depends on various factors, including the funding mechanism, the level of basic income, and the broader socioeconomic context. Additionally, potential challenges need to be considered and addressed in the design and implementation of UBI programs, but these should not become a hindrance to creating these programs.

Why is UBI a human right? 

Here are some of our thoughts:

1. Dignity and basic needs: We believe that every human being has a fundamental right to live with dignity, which includes access to basic necessities such as food, shelter, and healthcare. UBI, by providing a guaranteed income to all individuals, regardless of their circumstances, ensures everyone can meet these basic needs.
2. Equality and social justice: We believe that UBI will promote equality and social justice by ensuring all individuals have equal access to economic resources. The UBI will contribute to a better distribution of wealth by providing a minimum level of economic security to every person.
3. Freedom and autonomy: We are convinced that UBI will offer economic security, which is essential for individuals to exercise their freedom and pursue their goals and passions. By providing a basic income, UBI gives people the freedom to make choices about their lives without being permanently constrained by financial issues and without fearing that they will lose their jobs and their incomes.
4. Security in times of crisis: UBI can provide a safety net for everybody, even during times of economic troubles, natural disasters, or other crises. It helps to prevent individuals and communities from falling into poverty during challenging times.
5. Universal right: The universality of UBI means that it applies to all individuals as a matter of right, without any condition. This ensures that no one is excluded from accessing the benefits of economic security and social protection.

A better and more just world

Imagine a world where UBI isn't just a concept but a reality that defines the way that the society is built.

In this world, everyone breathes a little easier knowing they have a financial safety net to fall back on, no matter what life throws their way. Whether you are a successful entrepreneur, an artist chasing your dreams, or a parent raising a child, UBI gives you the freedom to pursue your passions without worrying about making ends meet.

Imagine not having to live paycheck to paycheck or feeling trapped in a job you hate just to pay the bills. With UBI, people have the flexibility to explore different career paths, go back to school, or take time off to care for loved ones, knowing that their basic needs are covered.

Imagine towns and villages buzzing with creativity as people are empowered to follow their passions and contribute to their communities in meaningful ways. Whether it is starting a community garden, launching a local business, or volunteering for a cause you believe in, UBI helps to build a culture of collaboration, support and creativity.

In this world, poverty becomes a thing of the past as UBI lifts people out of economic hardship and gives them the opportunity to build a better future for themselves, their families and their communities. It is not just about putting food on the table; it is about unlocking human potential and creating a more equitable and friendly society for all.

And as technology continues to reshape our world, UBI ensures that everyone benefits from the fruits of development, rather than leaving some behind. It is a powerful tool for leveling the path towards the future and ensuring no one is left behind.

Join us and let’s create a world where UBI isn't just a dream – it is a ray of hope marking the way towards a more just, inclusive, and hopeful future for all of us.