UBI should be funded by tax increases alongside social welfare

UBI payments given in addition to other welfare benefits will give workers more power to negotiate their income with employers, remove people from the poverty trap, and allow them to find more meaningful employment. The additional income it provides will allow true economic freedom.^[1] All of these advantages only apply if UBI is used in addition to other forms of social security. Some right-wing commentators would like to use UBI to dismantle the welfare state. If wages are not protected, healthcare dismantled, or pensions removed, the cost to most people will outweigh the benefits. It will amount to a regressive measure, not a progressive one. The implementation of UBI in addition to other welfare measures and a sensible minimum wage will give workers more power over their employment conditions and reduce exploitation. People will not need to work as much as before and will be able to make more demands.^[2] Some welfare programs may need replacement, but the entire welfare state does not need dismantling. A blend of streamlined reforms is by far the most sensible model.^[3] With progressive taxes in place, no cuts to public services are required. These taxes should be on the richest in society. Essential payments, such as disability benefits or housing benefits, should continue.^[4] The top 20% will lose out, to the bottom 80% who will gain from having a basic income.^[1] Only the richest will lose out if taxes fund UBI. Progressive forms of UBI will empower workers.

[P1] UBI given in addition to other tax benefits will empower everyone and prevent exploitation. [P2] The very wealthy can afford to pay to lift everyone out of poverty. [C] Progressive forms of UBI are affordable and empowering.