Nollaverokanta

Nollaverokanta is a public policy concept that originated in Finland. The term translates to "null wage" or "no work for no pay" in English. It refers to an economic model where citizens receive a basic income or a stipend without any expectations of work or productivity in return. The idea is that everyone, regardless of employment status, has a certain level of access to fundamental services and resources.

Nollaverokanta is often associated with discussions about universal basic income (UBI) and social welfare systems. It is intended to provide a safety net for individuals and families struggling with poverty, unemployment, or other forms of financial insecurity. The concept has sparked debate and discussion in various countries, with some arguing that it could improve quality of life and reduce poverty, while others raise concerns about fiscal sustainability, work incentives, and potential negative effects on the labor market.

The nollaverokanta idea is distinct from traditional welfare systems, which often tie benefits to employment or other requirements. Instead, it provides a universal, unconditional stipend that allows recipients to make choices about their lives without being tied to a specific job or work obligation. Finland's Social Insurance Institution (Kela) has been instrumental in implementing nollaverokanta-style policies, including a two-year UBI experiment from 2017 to 2019.