The Other Side of the Coin: The Comparative Evidence of Cash and in-Kind Transfers in Humanitarian Situations?

Abstract

This paper reviews the existing evidence on the performance of alternative transfer modalities across humanitarian sectors, including cash transfers, vouchers, and in-kind assistance (food and non-food). These were assessed in relation to food security, nutrition, livelihoods, health, education, and shelter objectives. The analysis focuses on the comparative performance of transfers, that is, on robust studies assessing transfers against each other in the same context and objectives. Based on available evidence, the paper identifies key factors to consider for transfer selection and core research priorities. Overall, six main findings emerge. Long-term global trends in concentration of people, economic activity, and technology are creating a landscape that is increasingly conductive for cash as an appropriate humanitarian response. The growing experiences with cash transfers over 2005–16 are promising, yet these seem dwarfed by their full potential. Trends in urbanization of crises and innovations in technology point to a possible significant increase in the share of cash used for humanitarian assistance beyond itscurrent single-digit share.