Cash-Based Interventions

IOM has many years of experience implementing Cash-Based Interventions (CBI) across the organization’s multiple areas of work. Globally, and particularly following the Grand Bargain commitments, there has been a growing interest among humanitarian and development partners to increase the use of CBI modalities and to provide assistance through the delivery of cash and vouchers to people in need. CBI is used in humanitarian, development and peace operations as well as in various migration contexts, including Return and Reintegration. In recent years, IOM has begun implementing CBI in non-emergency response settings, including response activities that are embedded into a long-term approach and support national safety net programmes.  

Developments within the financial sector and the arrival of new technologies allow for easier, faster and more transparent money transfer solutions. Whilst responses must be based on a solid understanding and assessment of the needs, context, market and operating environment, CBI can often be an effective and efficient response option to meet project objectives while empowering targeted individuals and communities and contributing to the recovery of local markets.  

Well-designed CBI can be more cost-efficient than other modalities and allow for better accountability and traceability. They also give aid recipients freedom and dignity to choose commodities and services in accordance with their unique needs.   

Between 2019 and 2021, IOM implemented Cash-Based Interventions in 122 countries, reaching approximately 4.5 million individual aid recipients. IOM is a member of the Global Cash Advisory Group and the CALP Network. At the field level, IOM has a leading role in Cash Working Groups and Cash Consortia in four countries. 

For more information on Cash-Based Interventions in IOM, please contact cbisupport@iom.int.