Debates during the COVID-19 pandemic: Universal Basic Income, right to employment, guaranteed public services and minimum income against poverty

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has been accompanied by significant stoppage of economic activity and corresponding massive unemployment and accompanying poverty. This situation has rekindled the debate on Universal Basic Income (UBI). This article reviews the theoretical positions on the end of work on which UBI is based and with it the impossibility of full employment, on the loss of its centrality and on the origin of economic value. The preference for full employment is analysed through job creation by public administrations, to meet unmet social needs and taking into account environmental constraints, and by reducing time spent working. It ends with a list of proposals, of services and money, to combat poverty.