# Could universal basic income be part of the solution in an AI economy?

- URL: https://talkfuse.com/story/could-universal-basic-income-be-part-of-the-solution-in-an-ai-economy/
- Published: 2026-11-15T05:36:00+00:00
- Updated: 2026-11-15T06:21:43+00:00
- Original publisher: DW (publisher lean: Centre)
- Original article: https://www.dw.com/en/could-universal-basic-income-be-part-of-the-solution-in-an-ai-economy/a-79941597?maca=en-rss-en-all-1573-rdf
- Topics: AI, Business, Economy, Elections, Politics, Technology, World

## Key points

- Merz is open to discussing basic income amid AI-driven change.
- Germany could lose up to 800,000 jobs to AI in 15 years.
- Campaigners welcome debate but say political statements are not policy.

## Summary

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has signalled he is willing to consider universal basic income as artificial intelligence reshapes work, despite his government’s emphasis on increasing employment. The debate matters because officials expect substantial job disruption, while support for basic income is emerging beyond its traditional political advocates.

Germany’s Federal Employment Agency head, Andrea Nahles, warned that AI could eliminate as many as 800,000 jobs over 15 years, though a similar number might eventually be created. Digital transformation minister Karsten Wildberger has said unconditional basic income could cushion labour-market upheaval, while campaigners say politicians’ remarks are not yet a policy shift and call for a serious debate. The article also notes that UBI has a long history and has attracted interest from technology leaders as a response to AI’s effects.

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Summarised by TalkFuse (https://talkfuse.com/). Quote the original publisher for the reporting and link this page for the summary and discussion.