Field
Preliminary Report Abstract
|
Before
|
After
This study compares the impact of several common development
programs (agricultural extension, subsidized agricultural inputs and
livestock transfers) to cash transfers equal to the cost of each program.
Prior to program delivery, recipients were asked their valuation of each
program (i.e., their cash indifference point between cash and the program)
as a proxy for their preference between cash and the program.
Subsequently, recipients were randomly assigned to receive cash or a
program. I do not find any impact of incorporating recipient preferences
in aid allocation on consumption, food security, assets, psychological
well-being or feelings of autonomy, and can rule out effects of
any meaningful size. When comparing cash transfers directly to common
development programs, the point estimates indicate no difference
in impacts and confidence intervals rule out large differences. I do find
that cash transfers increase feelings of autonomy and respect compared
to non-cash interventions.
|