by Peter Knight | Jan 16, 2025 | News
Note: The concept of basic income discussed here does not conform to BIEN’s definition.
“Many Americans are struggling with poverty, unemployment, mental health issues, addiction, and other challenges that make it extremely difficult to get back on their feet. According to the latest data from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), over 770,000 Americans reported experiencing homelessness on a single night in January 2024, marking a record high number and an 18% increase from 2023.
A guaranteed income program aims to provide reliable cash assistance to give people the stability, time, and resources they need to secure housing, food, healthcare, employment, and other basic needs. Studies, including our own, have shown that guaranteed income programs can effectively lift people out of homelessness and poverty when implemented thoughtfully. Cash assistance empowers recipients to make their own choices about what they need most. It treats them with dignity and trusts that they know best how to improve their situation.”
To view and/or download the playbook, click here.
by Peter Knight | Jan 13, 2025 | News
The Basic Income Earth Network (BIEN) is seeking a consultant to develop a comprehensive overview of the global fundraising ecosystem as part of our strategy to ensure financial sustainability in 2025. Deadline for applications: 17 January 2025.
Project Overview
● Scope: Conduct a systematic review of worldwide fundraising opportunities (both core and project-specific funding) for BIEN.
● Deliverable: A detailed report with specific, actionable recommendations, to be delivered by the end of March 2025.
● Duration: 2-3 months, with possible follow-up work available.
● Fee: USD 1,000.
To read the full advertisement, click here.
by Peter Knight | Jan 10, 2025 | News
Dr. Guy Standing is a Professorial Research Associate at SOAS University of London and a founding member and honorary co-president of the Basic Income Earth Network (BIEN). This non-governmental organization promotes a basic income for all. Standing discusses the concept of emergency-based basic income (EBI) as a tool for recovery in crises like natural disasters, wars, or economic collapses. Standing highlights its effectiveness in creating economic stability, reducing corruption, and fostering social solidarity. Using examples from Sri Lanka, Ukraine, and India, he explains how EBI directly empowers individuals and communities while stimulating local economies. They also explore issues like equitable distribution, the treatment of migrants, and potential corruption, emphasizing transparency and universal access. Standing notes growing global interest, including support from the Vatican, and underscores EBI’s role in promoting justice and hope.
To read the interview, click here.
by Peter Knight | Jan 8, 2025 | Opinion
How Cap and Share can end fossil fuel extraction, raise trillions for climate finance, and create a global universal basic income.
To read more, click here.
by Peter Knight | Jan 7, 2025 | News
Social currencies have emerged as an innovative instrument not only for transferring cash, but also for promoting local development. By boosting local consumption and supporting small businesses, they help communities build self-sustaining economies. Drawing on examples from Rio de Janeiro’s municipalities, this blog explores their potential to complement welfare policies while highlighting the challenges they face.
To read the full blog, click here.
