Guaranteed Livable Income (GLI)
What Is Guaranteed Livable Income (GLI)?
GLI, also called Universal Basic Income (UBI), is a policy that provides every individual with a regular, unconditional cash payment, sufficient to cover basic living expenses like food, shelter, and clothing—regardless of employment status or income level.
The goal? To ensure no one falls below a minimum standard of living, while preserving personal dignity and freedom.
How Does It Work?
Universal or targeted: Some models give it to everyone, others focus on those with lower incomes.
No strings attached: It’s not tied to employment, job-seeking, or any conditions.
Stackable: It often works alongside existing income—meaning if you work, you still get it.
What Does the Research Say?
Boosts Local Economies
A 2019 study on Manitoba’s Mincome experiment (1970s) showed that when people had a basic income, they spent more at local businesses, not less.
A 2021 OECD report found that basic income stimulates demand, especially in rural and underserved areas, where every dollar goes directly into the community.
Supports Employment, Not Laziness
Contrary to popular myths, most people don’t stop working when given a basic income.
In Finland’s 2017–2018 UBI trial, recipients were more likely to find work than the control group—and reported less stress and more life satisfaction.
Reduces Healthcare & Social Costs
In Ontario’s 2017–2018 Basic Income Pilot, recipients reported improved physical and mental health, reduced ER visits, and less reliance on crisis services.
Long-term savings are projected in areas like healthcare, policing, and social work.
Encourages Entrepreneurship & Education
Basic income provides a financial safety net that allows people to start businesses, go back to school, or care for children and elders without financial ruin.
Evidence from trials in Kenya and Alaska shows that UBI supports economic resilience and innovation.
Why Does It Make Economic Sense?
Stabilizes the economy in downturns by ensuring everyone has spending power.
Reduces bureaucracy by simplifying the social safety net.
Increases productivity by supporting people through career transitions and automation-related job losses.
Invests in human potential—a livable income frees people to contribute meaningfully in both paid and unpaid roles.
GLI is not a handout—it’s a foundation. It’s about ensuring that every Canadian has a baseline level of dignity and opportunity, no matter their background or circumstance.
Whether it’s supporting a student, an artist, a single parent, or someone in career transition, basic income fuels well-being and economic participation—and the data backs it up.
