Empowering women through cash relief in humanitarian contexts

Overview

This paper discusses the rationale behind cash transfer strategies as an alternative means of channelling resources to women and men in humanitarian contexts. It highlights key gender-related considerations that contribute to the success of the strategy. Food aid remains the largest part of United Nations appeals, but it is often delayed, inadequate in quantity and quality, and donated as a means of disposing of surpluses from developed countries. Despite these criticisms, little consideration has been given to alternatives – more specifically, to cash – as a means of ensuring entitlements. This paper highlights the factors that should be considered in determining the appropriateness of cash interventions, and explores the potential of cash interventions directed to women for improving household food security and women’s status in the household and community.

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