Cash Transfer Programming: Lessons from northern Iraq

In situations of conflict, disaster and protracted crisis, displaced persons not only face physical threats but are also  confronted with the challenge of economic survival. High levels of general unemployment or legal barriers to labour market entry often restrict access to jobs and income, and the consequences of unemployment in displacement can be far-reaching, with poor nutrition, lack of access to basic services, psychological distress and social conflict just some of the possible results.

In this context, Cash Transfer Programming (CTP) has become  an increasingly important tool in humanitarian response and poverty reduction. CTP encompasses cash transfers ( to households or individuals) that are either unconditional or conditional upon criteria such as acquiring education, attending training, using health services or carrying out work.

This article identifies the main lessons learned with regard to cash programming in northern Iraq.