In this event, we will be joined by one of the architects of the Swiss Basic Income Referendum, Enno Schmidt. To date, Switzerland is the only country anywhere that has gone to the polls over whether or not to adopt a basic income for all. Despite ingenious campaigning, the referendum was unsuccessful – a majority of Swiss were swung by economic and work ethic arguments against the policy. This conversation will shed light on the history of the referendum, how it came to be on the ballot box, what the campaign was like and where it was won and lost. It will also turn to the future, to prospects for a second referendum in Switzerland and for basic income in Europe and beyond.
The event will take place on Wednesday, 29th January 2025, from 3pm – 4:15pm. It will be a hybrid meeting, hosted in 8 West 2.34 and online here.
