Basic income experiments in OECD countries:A rapid evidence review

Since 2015, the idea of a universal basic income (UBI) has inspired an increasing number ofexperiments in OECD countries. In this report, we provide a rapid evidence review of thecharacteristics, indicators and outcomes of these basic income experiments in order to informpolicymakers about gaps in knowledge and to make suggestions for future experimental design.We found 38 experiments across Europe, North America and Asia that met inclusion criteria.Most experiments involve cash benefits targeted at a relatively small number of low-incomehouseholds for a period of roughly two years dispersed across a relatively large area. We consider thatthis makes a sound case for the development of more heterogenous target groups, a longer time periodand a greater examination of community effects. We also provide some suggestions for more policy-and political-oriented goals, which we argue are an oft-ignored elements of these experiments inpolicymaking and research.