German Experiment: Lessons on Universal Basic Income

Enrique Dans' article discusses a German experiment on universal basic income (UBI) conducted between 2020 and 2023, where 122 participants received €1,200 monthly for three years, compared to a control group.The study's findings challenge common misconceptions about UBI, showing that recipients maintained work hours, experienced improved well-being and mental health, and felt greater autonomy. Dans argues that these results support UBI as a potential solution to socioeconomic challenges arising from automation, suggesting it does not disincentivize work and could enhance societal stability. The subsequent comments section features a range of opinions, from concerns about immigration and inflation to discussions about the practicalities, costs, and potential societal and environmental impacts of implementing a UBI on a larger scale.This article is also available in English on my Medium page, «What can we learn from Germany’s universal basic income experiment?»