Eradicating poverty remains a critical objective of global development, prominently enshrined in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 1 (SDG 1). Achieving this goal has become more urgent in the face of widening global economic inequality, exacerbated by the far-reaching impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. In response to the unprecedented economic fallout of COVID-19, nearly 30% of global governments rapidly implemented temporary income support measures to stabilize households and mitigate the crisis. These interventions, though temporary, have sparked a significant global discourse on the feasibility, benefits, and challenges of adopting Universal Basic Income (UBI) as a long-term solution to poverty alleviation. UBI—a guaranteed income provided universally to individuals regardless of employment status—has drawn both enthusiasm and skepticism. Cultural factors, such as societal perceptions of work, social cohesion, and the value placed on productivity, are pivotal in determining its acceptance and success. Preliminary evidence from income support pilot programs worldwide suggests notable potential. These studies have linked income support to improvements in mental and physical health, reductions in financial stress, and increased social well-being. Additionally, in some cases, these measures have catalyzed educational advancement, entrepreneurial ventures, and even enhanced prenatal and infant health outcomes. However, the implementation of a universal income policy on a national scale will invariably be shaped by the cultural norms, traditions, and societal expectations unique to each country. In the context of “Modern Cross-Cultural Management”, this chapter explores the interplay between cultural dynamics and the potential adoption of UBI in various regions. It delves into how cultural differences, including collectivist versus individualist orientations and societal attitudes toward welfare, influence public support, implementation challenges, and the outcomes of such transformative policies. By addressing the complex interaction of culture, poverty reduction, and global crises like COVID-19, this chapter underscores the importance of a culturally sensitive approach to addressing economic inequality. Ultimately, this chapter argues that UBI, while not a one-size-fits-all solution, offers a pathway to reimagining economic systems in a way that promotes equity, resilience, and social inclusion. It provides a thought-provoking analysis for policymakers, business leaders, and global managers seeking to understand the role of cultural diversity in shaping the future of economic sustainability and poverty eradication.

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Consideration of Culture and The Elimination of Poverty, and COVID-19: Is It Time for a Universal Basic Income?

  • Russell Searight,
  • Sawyer I. Dowd

摘要

Eradicating poverty remains a critical objective of global development, prominently enshrined in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 1 (SDG 1). Achieving this goal has become more urgent in the face of widening global economic inequality, exacerbated by the far-reaching impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. In response to the unprecedented economic fallout of COVID-19, nearly 30% of global governments rapidly implemented temporary income support measures to stabilize households and mitigate the crisis. These interventions, though temporary, have sparked a significant global discourse on the feasibility, benefits, and challenges of adopting Universal Basic Income (UBI) as a long-term solution to poverty alleviation. UBI—a guaranteed income provided universally to individuals regardless of employment status—has drawn both enthusiasm and skepticism. Cultural factors, such as societal perceptions of work, social cohesion, and the value placed on productivity, are pivotal in determining its acceptance and success. Preliminary evidence from income support pilot programs worldwide suggests notable potential. These studies have linked income support to improvements in mental and physical health, reductions in financial stress, and increased social well-being. Additionally, in some cases, these measures have catalyzed educational advancement, entrepreneurial ventures, and even enhanced prenatal and infant health outcomes. However, the implementation of a universal income policy on a national scale will invariably be shaped by the cultural norms, traditions, and societal expectations unique to each country. In the context of “Modern Cross-Cultural Management”, this chapter explores the interplay between cultural dynamics and the potential adoption of UBI in various regions. It delves into how cultural differences, including collectivist versus individualist orientations and societal attitudes toward welfare, influence public support, implementation challenges, and the outcomes of such transformative policies. By addressing the complex interaction of culture, poverty reduction, and global crises like COVID-19, this chapter underscores the importance of a culturally sensitive approach to addressing economic inequality. Ultimately, this chapter argues that UBI, while not a one-size-fits-all solution, offers a pathway to reimagining economic systems in a way that promotes equity, resilience, and social inclusion. It provides a thought-provoking analysis for policymakers, business leaders, and global managers seeking to understand the role of cultural diversity in shaping the future of economic sustainability and poverty eradication.