BASIC Research Working Paper 9 - Value for Money of Social Assistance in Fragile Contexts: Considerations, Evidence, and Research Priorities (March 2022)

This thematic review provides a conceptual framework for understanding VfM of social assistance in fragile and conflict-affected situations (FCAS). It draws out what is particular to these contexts and identifies key areas for focus. It then reviews the existing literature to identify gaps and point to priorities for further research. The aim of this thematic review is two-fold. First and foremost, it seeks to provide a conceptual framework for understanding VfM of social assistance in FCAS. It draws out what is particular to such contexts and identifies key areas for focus. Second, it reviews the existing literature to identify gaps and point to priorities for further research.

Objectives of the paper (see page 4)

Although VfM is singled out as a separate thematic area for the purposes of the BASIC Research programme, ultimately it cuts across the entire research agenda, as it provides a framework for assessing policy options and programme implementation choices of all kinds. So, while evidence on effectiveness across all the BASIC Research thematic areas is theoretically relevant for VfM –outcomes and impacts are major drivers of overall value for money – this paper does not attempt to provide a comprehensive review of, for example, livelihoods interventions or targeting. These issues are covered elsewhere. Rather, the focus here is on the extent to which VfM is addressed explicitly in the literature, and on identifying the key issues that should be considered from a VfM perspective in each of these areas.

Better Assistance in Crises (BASIC) Research (funded by UKAid) aims to inform policy and programming on how to help poor and vulnerable people cope better with crises and meet their basic needs through more effective social assistance. All costs related to BASIC Research are covered by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.