Conditional and unconditional cash transfer programs: the recent experiences around the world

Cash transfer programs have become the most popular government welfare paradigm for many developing countries in this new millennium. Cash transfer programs run by providing a small cash transfer to the parents (very often those below the poverty line) could be contingent on certain conditions, such as sending children to school or visiting doctors regularly. Cash transfer programs that have been implemented in many countries across the world, aim to meet basic human development targets. In recent times, cash transfer programs have been carried out in 52 countries. This paper summarises the experiences of some countries with cash transfer programs, analysing and discussing program components and design—such as, payments mechanisms and beneficing identification, as well as selecting lessons learned. Also, attention will be given to show the connectedness between cash transfer programs and gender perspective. This paper will also shed light on cash transfer program as a mechanism for social inclusion. Finally, the most common criticisms of cash transfer programs will be given. This paper attempted to rely on reports and articles, especially by the scholars working on cash transfer programs who have produced several studies since 2000. This paper serves as a useful reference for researchers and academics working on the cash transfer programs.