1The results of the world's largest basic income experiment were published yesterday, fuelling a fierce national debate about the future of welfare.
2For two full years, five thousand unemployed adults received a monthly payment of six hundred euros with no conditions attached and no questions asked.
3Researchers compared their progress with a similar group who continued to rely on the traditional, heavily regulated benefits system.
4Contrary to the fears of some politicians, the payments did not discourage people from working; employment among the recipients actually rose slightly.
5Participants reported significantly lower levels of stress, better sleep, and a greater willingness to retrain or start small businesses of their own.
6Critics, however, point out that the scheme would cost billions if it were extended to the entire population of working age.
7They also argue that a short trial cannot reveal how people would behave if the payments were guaranteed for life.
8Supporters respond that the savings in healthcare and administration could eventually cover a substantial share of the total cost.
9The finance minister remained cautious, saying that the findings were interesting but not yet a convincing case for radical reform.
10Parliament will debate the report this autumn, and two parties have promised to include the idea in their manifestos.