1. BASIC INCOME PILOTING IN FINLAND
BASIC INCOME PILOTING IN FINLAND
Government has decided to test a basic income in Finland from 2017 on.
A comprehensive interim report on feasibility of such a scheme was delivered to Government on 30 March 2016.
Although no decision has been taken on the tested model, it will probably replace existing basic benefits and maintain earnings related benefits and some top-ups, in particular for housing.
Setting simultaneously sufficient and work incenting level of basic income is a complex, political decision.
Calculations show that, excluding housing costs, monthly EUR 650 are needed, on average, to meet one's basic needs in Finland.
Antero Kiviniemi