Building global citizenship through global basic income and progressive global taxation

In this policy brief, we recommend the institution of a Global Universal Basic Income (GUBI). We define this as a periodic payment unconditionally delivered to all individuals worldwide, without means-test or work requirement, paid in cash or other appropriate form. It should be funded through a tax on financial transactions, a wealth tax levied on the top 1% of the global wealth distribution, and a carbon tax. The GUBI provides an automatic safety net against sudden systemic shocks like COVID-19. It should be managed by a United Nations (UN) agency. A GUBI helps create global citizenship, foster global social cohesion, and regain trust and legitimacy toward international institutions such as the Group of 20 (G20).