Ireland is officially making its basic income program for people in the arts and culture permanent, becoming the first country to successfully test such a model and turn it into a lasting policy. Starting in 2026, 2,000 selected artists, musicians, architects and other creative professionals will receive 350 euros a week — about 1,400 euros a month.
The program began as an emergency measure during the pandemic and, over three years, proved effective. During the experiment, it brought nearly 80 million euros to Ireland’s economy, at a cost of 72 million euros. Participants began earning an average of 500 euros more from their creative work, while reducing forced outside jobs. Pressure on the social assistance system also fell — by an average of 100 euros per person per month. In other words, the basic income not only supported individual artists, but also reduced overall social spending.
Public support for the initiative is striking — 97% of surveyed Irish people approved the program. Authorities are discussing expanding the project and introducing new participant selection criteria. International attention to Ireland’s experience is growing: the country has become the first example of how the idea of universal basic income can work in practice — and deliver concrete benefits.
