Shifting the focus? From individual to collective-level effects of cash transfers: A systematic review of the impacts on social capital

Contrary to the individual and household levels, analysis on the collective-level effects of cash transfers (CTs) is largely lacking. To fill such gap, this paper conducted a systematic review of the evidence around CT impacts on social capital. Available studies suggest that CTs can stimulate bonding social capital (social participation, membership of organizations), while often generate issues like rising inter-group tensions and social exclusion (bridging social capital). Overall, however, the existing evidence is scarce. The article invites CT-implementing agencies to design interventions in accordance with the envisaged impacts—not only at the individual but also at the collective level.