IELTS Writing · 9

The bar chart compares the proportion of survey respondents in Finland, Canada, Japan and Brazil who backed the introduction of a Universal Basic Income in 2018 and 2023. Overall, support for UBI increased in every country over the five-year period, with Brazil recording the highest levels of approval in both years and Japan the lowest. Notably, support exceeded 50% in three of the four nations by 2023. In 2018, Brazil had the strongest support at 55%, followed closely by Finland at 48%. By 2023, these figures had risen to 67% and 61% respectively, an increase of 12 and 13 percentage points. Canada also saw a marked rise, climbing from 42% to 53%. Japan stood apart from the other countries, with the lowest backing throughout. Its support grew modestly from 31% in 2018 to 38% in 2023, a gain of just seven points, leaving it well below the others by the end of the period.

The idea of a Universal Basic Income (UBI), under which every citizen receives a regular payment from the state, has attracted growing attention. While supporters see it as a safeguard against poverty and economic disruption, critics warn that it could reduce the incentive to work and strain national budgets. In my view, although the concerns are legitimate, a carefully designed UBI offers significant social benefits. Those in favour argue that a guaranteed income provides a vital safety net in an era of automation and unstable employment. As machines replace human labour in many industries, traditional jobs are becoming less secure, and UBI could cushion workers against sudden income loss. It would also reduce the bureaucracy associated with means-tested welfare and give people the freedom to retrain, care for relatives, or pursue creative work without fear of destitution. Opponents, however, raise valid objections. Critics fear that paying everyone unconditionally might discourage employment, particularly in low-paid sectors, leading to labour shortages. Moreover, funding such a scheme would require substantial tax increases or spending cuts elsewhere, which could prove politically and economically unsustainable over the long term. Weighing these arguments, I believe the advantages outweigh the drawbacks if the policy is implemented sensibly. Evidence from pilot programmes suggests that most recipients continue working and use the money to improve their education, health and wellbeing. A modest UBI, financed through fairer taxation of corporations and high earners, need not be ruinous. In conclusion, while the risks of reduced work motivation and high costs deserve serious attention, a well-structured Universal Basic Income could strengthen social security and prepare societies for future economic change.