As the Basic Income Earth Network prepares to mark its 40th anniversary, BIEN is inviting longtime members, contributors, affiliates, activists, scholars, and supporters to take part in its 40th Anniversary Oral History Project.
The project will collect personal reflections, pivotal memories, behind-the-scenes stories, photos, and video messages from people who helped build, shape, and expand BIEN over the past four decades.
The form asks contributors to reflect on their history with BIEN, including the most pivotal moment they experienced, their most important contribution to the organization, lesser-known stories from BIEN’s history, and what they believe will be essential for the basic income movement’s success in the coming decade.
The Oral History Project also invites memories from four major eras in BIEN’s development: the early academic gatherings of 1986-1996, the broadening of membership and affiliates from 1996-2006, the global expansion of 2006-2016, and the period of professionalization and mainstream attention from 2016-2026.
“These stories are part of the living history of the basic income movement,” said Tyler Prochazka, director of the 40th anniversary media project. “BIEN’s 40th anniversary is an opportunity not only to celebrate what has been built, but to preserve the memories and lessons of the people who made that work possible.”
Responses will help document BIEN’s shared history and support reflection on the future of the movement as it enters its next chapter.
Contributors may write as much or as little as they wish until July 3, 2026. Those with photos or video messages are also encouraged to include links through the form.
Submit your response through the BIEN 40th Anniversary Oral History Project form.
About BIEN
The Basic Income Earth Network is an international network dedicated to discussion, research, and public understanding of basic income. Since 1986, BIEN has connected scholars, activists, policymakers, and advocates working to explore and advance basic income around the world.
