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A groundbreaking European initiative
In its 2026 budget, the Irish government confirmed the creation of a guaranteed minimum income of €1,300 per month for 2,000 to 2,200 artists and creative workers. This program, called the Basic Income for the Arts (BIA), was first piloted between 2022 and 2025 with 2,000 beneficiaries. As MusicRadar reports, Culture Minister Patrick O’Donovan described the scheme as a “model envied by the world” (MusicRadar).
Measured economic benefits
An independent study conducted by Alma Economics for the Irish Ministry of Culture found that every €1 invested in the pilot generated €1.39 in benefits for society. According to Business Insider, this calculation included cultural value for Irish citizens, social benefits such as improved well-being, as well as fiscal effects — additional tax revenues and reduced welfare spending (Business Insider).
Societal and cultural impact
Artists involved in the pilot reported feeling less financial stress and more freedom to create. Far from lowering productivity, the allowance encouraged ambitious projects and innovative work. As Business Insider highlighted, many participants described the scheme as “liberating,” allowing them to fully dedicate themselves to their art.
The French contrast
France has no equivalent system. The country relies on the intermittents du spectacle framework, covering some salaried artists, the artistes-auteurs status with limited protections, and occasional grants through the CNAP or DRAC. But there is no universal, direct income guarantee.
A Senate proposal, reported by Le Monde, suggests including artists in the national unemployment insurance system, granting them at least 85% of the minimum wage if they can prove 300 hours of annual activity (Le Monde).
A model for Europe?
Ireland’s experience demonstrates that culture is not an expense but a profitable investment for society. Could France, and perhaps Europe as a whole, follow this path and guarantee a minimum income for its artists?