Introduction: Global Political Activism and Campaigns on Universal Basic Income

Abstract

The co-editors present an overview of the contemporary climate of political activism regarding basic income initiatives. They provide the rationale for the book and a synopsis of what prompted their collaboration. Brief synopses of each chapter follow. The co-editors conclude the Introduction with a discussion of merits and limitations of UBI pilot projects, drawing on the experiences of Finland and Canada and lessons to enhance the efficacy of related political activism. Evidence from these two UBI pilot projects and from the case studies presented throughout the book suggests that reliance on political leaders and bureaucrats to roll out UBI is insufficient, that increased and sustained civil society and public pressure are necessary to enhance prospects for advancing a political agenda favorable to adoption of UBI initiatives.