Cash transfers in urban crises: do they work for women?

Published on the IIED website on 20 March 2017, this blog presents new research which will examine whether cash transfers are helping women to participate in, and contribute to, the Kathmandu Valley's local economy, following the Nepal earthquake almost two years ago. To support earthquake victims, the Nepali government and international non-governmental organisations (INGOs) set up emergency cash transfer programmes. These are regular payments of money, or vouchers for goods or services, provided to individuals or households instead of or in addition to other types of in-kind humanitarian aid (e.g. food, seeds, and tools). By putting money directly into the hands of those affected, individuals or families can decide how to meet their food and non-food needs. 

IIED's research will examine the day-to-day activities of women and their families, including paid and unpaid care work post-earthquake. Overall, it will assess if and how cash transfers are strengthening women's role in the economy.