Overwhelming evidence shows that cash transfers can efficiently reach people in need faster and at lower cost than other forms of emergency assistance. What is more, when people have the power to make choices they secure better outcomes for the health, education, safety and livelihoods of themselves and their families while simultaneously boosting the economy.

The humanitarian community can ‘commit to cash’ by rapidly scaling-up the use and quality of cash transfer programming across the humanitarian system. A commitment to cash transfers replacing ‘in-kind’ assistance in all appropriate contexts and complementing other forms of programming with cash where evidence supports its use would be a bold step towards enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of the humanitarian action.

Available documents & links