BIEN
The possible future of social welfare took center stage with the premiere of a new documentary from UBI Taiwan. The film, which played to a sold-out crowd, chronicles the life of a single mother, Ms. Yu, who received unconditional financial support for two years.
The documentary, which premiered August 3 after three years of production, explores how a guaranteed income, free from work requirements or bureaucratic hurdles, shaped Ms. Yu’s choices, well-being, and aspirations. At the start of the film, she is navigating the challenges of raising her son while struggling with Taiwan’s complex social welfare system.
The first phase of UBI Taiwan’s pilot program provided her with NT$10,000 ($300 USD) a month for one year.
With the basic income, Ms. Yu purchased a study desk for her son and found a more suitable job. However, her journey took an unexpected turn when she was diagnosed with breast cancer just a few months into the pilot. The basic income payments became a lifeline during her treatment.
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