There can be no doubt that Mia Mottley’s signature international policy achievement, the Bridgetown Initiative, is a potential game-changer in global development finance as the world struggles with the existential threat of climate change.
But even closer to home, the nation-state Barbados faces an existential threat of inertia within. Ironically, we face punishment for century-long success in defeating infant mortality, inequality and ignominy for thousands upon thousands of Barbadians.
That existential threat of internal inertia is a declining birth rate and an ageing population. This is shrinking our tax base and draining the well that sustains our social security system. Experts predict our pension and benefits system could collapse just as the Independence baby boomers – our prime minister included – turn 70, in 2036.
This danger, which has been voiced by successive ministers on both sides of the party divide, now demands progressive policies rather than the passing tut-tuts of leaders and exhortations more suited to the pulpit than to the parliament.
Relying on immigration alone won’t work.. What we propose involves new investment in our people, returning to the past philosophy of putting our full faith and credit in our only real resource with new, bold action: support and incentivise Bajan motherhood.
Implementing payments to mothers as a means of boosting our sagging birth rate and slowing down the ageing of our population has both precedent and proof. From Finland to South Korea, Canada to Australia, the success of universal child credit benefits, universal basic income, and even a box of parental goodies, points the way to renewal of our child-rearing energy.
To the conservative, pro-capitalist arguments against such payments, we hold up the mirror of Barbados’ social democratic values that have historically empowered mothers for our nation’s sake.
We can begin by thinking inside the baby box. For the past 75 years, Finland has provided a starter kit to all expectant mothers, commonly known as the maternity box. This box includes essential items like clothes and toys to help care for newborns. Finland’s commitment to supporting mothers has contributed to its lowest infant mortality rate in the world. This initiative ensures that every child receives equal opportunities, regardless of their socio-economic background, right from the start. By providing necessary supplies and support, Finland recognizes the importance of investing in the well-being of infants and their mothers.
The valuable lesson from Finland’s success in promoting infant welfare and supporting mothers is that such pro-mother initiatives can strengthen a society’s fabric and improve the quality of life for both mothers and children. Universal child credit benefits, which provide financial support to parents, can alleviate the financial burdens associated with raising children. This benefit contributes to healthier pregnancies, improved neonatal care, and better overall child development outcomes.
And yes, we should consider adopting a universal basic income that can create a stable foundation for economic and social progress. By guaranteeing a minimum income for all citizens, beginning with new and young mothers, Barbados can address income inequality, promote social mobility, and foster a more inclusive society. This approach recognizes the crucial role mothers play in shaping the future of our nation and ensures they have the necessary resources to provide a nurturing environment for their children.
We no doubt expect the reactionary criticism that sees nothing wrong with corporate welfare in the form of concessions and tax breaks for business but would condemn payments to mothers as socialism or an undue burden on taxpayers. Such critics would do well to consult our history. Barbados has been a social democratic country since the end of the Second World War. Our commitment to providing quality healthcare, education, and social services has transformed a disease-riddled, death-plagued, post-slavery hell-hole of the 1930s into a progressive Black society today. Payments to mothers are not a departure from social democratic values; instead, they align with our long-standing principles of creating a more equitable society.
Supporting mothers through financial assistance is an investment in our country’s future. Extensive research consistently demonstrates that children raised in stable environments with adequate resources are more likely to succeed academically, contribute to society and actively participate in the workforce. Even those who would wish to overturn our birth control practices and abortion laws are curiously silent on empowering mothers with financial support. What can be more “pro-life” and “pro-choice” in fostering a generation of individuals who can positively shape Barbados’ economic growth and social cohesion?
Boosting birth rates and slowing down the ageing population requires innovative solutions that prioritize the well-being of mothers. By drawing inspiration from other models and implementing financial and social support to mothers, Barbados can create a supportive environment that encourages childbirth and invests in the future. This is not welfare; a holistic pro-birth initiative of universal child credit benefits, universal basic income, maternity care packages, supportive public maternal health, parental education and early childhood development could defeat income inequality, promote social mobility and foster a more inclusive society.
Time to put up or shut up. If we are indeed a social democratic country, we ought to embrace progressive policies that align with our core values. Let us prioritize our mothers and their children by providing the necessary financial support and re-upping resources. This approach ensures a brighter future for our nation. It is time for our policymakers to be as bold, visionary, imaginative and persistent at home as they intend to be abroad.
It’s time for a bold, new ‘Barbados Initiative’ – at home. ]]>
