Universal basic income as a tool to reduce poverty and inequality: Theoretical, economic, and empirical analysis La renta básica universal como herramienta para reducir la pobreza y la desigualdad: Análisis teórico, económico y empírico

Abstract

This paper analyzes Universal Basic Income (UBI) as a potential response to current challenges such as poverty, inequality, and job insecurity. Using a qualitative and multidisciplinary approach, it explores the normative and philosophical foundations of UBI, its redistributive goals, financing methods, and the most common criticisms of its implementation. It also compares different proposals and examines the results of pilot experiments in countries like Finland, Iran, India, and Namibia. The analysis shows that although UBI has strong theoretical viability, it faces significant technical, fiscal, and ideological obstacles. Nevertheless, its flexibility, preventive nature, and potential to transform the welfare system make it an attractive policy in contexts of structural inequality and institutional distrust. The paper concludes that UBI could be an effective tool if implemented within a framework of integral and sustainable reforms.