Editor’s Note: Devex is exploring the evolution of cash transfers in the aid sector. Here, we find out what questions aid agencies’ legal teams have about the approach. Read also: the EU’s vision for more coordinated cash programming.
LONDON — As donors put more pressure on humanitarian agencies to collaborate on cash transfer programming, many in the sector are already putting their heads together to work out the legal implications of a more joined-up approach.
Last year, the European Union’s humanitarian arm, ECHO, released new guidance for delivering cash transfers which envisions agencies working more closely together, in part by more readily sharing beneficiary data and financial service providers. While many say the aim behind the guidance is good, it has also sparked conversations about potential legal implications around data privacy, intellectual property, and reputational risk. Leaders at some major international aid organizations have been meeting to discuss the issue.