The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has been providing debit cards, known as cash-based interventions (CBI), to migrants and refugees in several countries, including Mexico and Guatemala. These cards, funded through various sources including contributions from the United States, a major donor to the UNHCR, have sparked controversy and raised concerns about accountability.
Pros and cons of the program: Proponents of the program argue that it empowers refugees and migrants by giving them more control over how they spend their assistance, and that it can be more efficient and cost-effective than traditional in-kind aid. Critics, however, argue that it can be difficult to track how the money is being used, and that it could be diverted to support criminal activity or human trafficking. Key facts about the program: The UNHCR began using CBI programs in 2012, and they have since been expanded to over 100 countries. The value of the debit cards varies depending on the needs of the recipients and the local context. The cards can be used to purchase food, shelter, medicine, and other essential items.
The UNHCR has said that it has taken steps to mitigate the risks associated with CBI programs, such as using biometric identification and partnering with local businesses. The US taxpayer angle: The US government has provided over $8 billion to the UNHCR since 2002, and it is one of the agency’s largest donors. The US government has also expressed concerns about the use of CBI programs, and it has called on the UNHCR to improve its oversight and accountability mechanisms.
