This review examines shifts and emerging trends in the accountability of social assistance during crises, based on findings from the previous 2022 review. It draws on primary research from the Better Assistance in Crises (BASIC) Research programme, including themes such as targeting, aid recipients’ lived experiences and digital risks, alongside the broader literature on accountability in crises.
The paper addresses three critical accountability issues: disconnected, technocratic mechanisms; limited participation and trust between communities and aid providers; and conflicting accountability priorities. It explores how power dynamics, stakeholder participation and trust influence accountability, reviewing challenges in feedback mechanisms, donor approaches and the risk of aid diversion. The paper concludes with promising practices and identifies gaps for future research.
