Cash technology

Digital technology has the potential to transform the way in which cash programmes operate. Mobile payment platforms are already demonstrating how new technologies can have a great impact on efficiencies and convenience for people receiving cash assistance. This is just one example of the potential for the use of technology in this sector. 

© Pierre Grandidier / IFRC

For more information on specific areas of innovation in cash technology, see the following:

> Blockchain and DLT

> RedRose resources and Toolkit

2 July 2021

Manual: Digital Communication Systems – COVID-19 response

Type:

Guidance

Organization:

510, Netherlands Red Cross

Since March 2020, the 510 Data Team of the Netherlands Red Cross has provided solutions for digital communication of various National Societies. This manual shares information on various systems for digital communication, with details on programmes and platforms used.

  • Cash technology
  • Information management

9 June 2021

Digital identity: enabling dignified access to humanitarian services in migration

Type:

Research

Organization:

IFRC

This report sheds light on the needs and concerns of people on the move when it comes to identification, based on interviews with a range of migration experts and stakeholders. The report also makes specific recommendations for organisations contemplating the use of digital technology to identify the migrants they serve.

  • Cash technology
  • Information management

25 May 2021

Digital Identity: An Analysis for the Humanitarian Sector

Type:

Research

Organization:

IFRC, Oxford Centre for Technology and Development, DIGID

Through a series of expert interviews and case studies, this report delves into the humanitarian contexts where organisations are already piloting digital ID solutions, looking at technical, ethical, and sustainability considerations. It shows that digital ID has great potential for use in the humanitarian sector, with benefits to organisations and affected communities alike, while also outlining its limitations and the challenges to overcome.

  • Cash technology

27 April 2021

“Doing no harm” in the digital age: What the digitalisation of cash means for humanitarian action

Type:

Article

Organization:

ICRC

Cash transfers have changed the way the humanitarian sector delivers assistance. The digitalization of cash means that the simple click of a button can put money in the hands of hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of people within minutes. As humanitarians, we need to articulate what “do no harm” means in the digital age, applying this equally to the way we use digital payments to support people affected by armed conflicts and other situations of violence.

  • Cash in conflict
  • Cash technology

1 February 2021

Webinar Recording: Practical Guidance for Data Protection in Cash and Voucher Assistance – A supplement to the Cash in Emergencies Toolkit

Type:

Learning

This webinar was organised to launch a practical guidance document to support for cash practitioners and those managing programmes embedding data protection principles when distributing cash assistance. To download the…

  • Cash technology
  • Webinar

28 January 2021

Practical Guidance for Data Protection in Cash and Voucher Assistance – A supplement to the Cash in Emergencies Toolkit

Type:

Guidance

Organization:

IFRC

This guidance provides key considerations on data protection and supports cash practitioners throughout decision making and implementation, while referencing the processes in the Cash in Emergencies toolkit (CiE).

  • Cash technology
  • Information management

In partnership with:

British Red Cross