Work

Tackling ‘scandalous inequalities’: a global policy proposal for a Humanity Identity Card and Basic Income Supplement

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Food insecurity and the absence of legal identity are the most severe deficiencies in vital and existential human capabilities. These extreme situations expose ‘scandalous inequalities’ between the haves and have-nots on a global scale. The article proposes addressing these issues simultaneously by introducing a Humanity Identity Card (HIC), coupled with a Basic Income Supplement (BIS) of US$ 1 per day for the most vulnerable half of the world’s population. This global social policy aims to expedite the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals 16.9 and 2.1 of the United Nations. The initial funding for the HIC could be sourced from contributions amounting to 0.66% of the gross domestic product of sovereign states, 0.66% of the market capitalisation of major corporations, and 0.66% of the wealth of billionaire households. The HIC would permanently provide universal recognition of individual identity, while the BIS is designed to be gradually phased out as its benefits take effect. Additionally, implementing this policy worldwide can foster a sense of shared responsibility in addressing the global challenges humanity faces.

Source: Humanities and Social Sciences Communications

DOI: 10.1057/s41599-025-05240-w

Authors: Ettore Recchi, Tobias Grohmann

Institutions: Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Institut d'Etudes Politiques de Paris, Centre de recherche sur les Inégalités Sociales, European University Institute

Language: English

Topic: Human Rights and Development

Subfield: Sociology and Political Science

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Reduced inequalities, No poverty, Partnerships for the goals

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,890