Yemen: Informal Social Networks Crucial for Households Affected by Conflict

In Yemen, where formal social protection has largely collapsed, informal social protection networks are a vital source of support for households affected by displacement, income loss, illness, and debt. A recent study in Taiz governorate found that households rely mainly on relatives and neighbors for basic needs and small emergency loans. However, these networks rarely provide investment capital, market access, or technical expertise needed for sustainable livelihoods. The study suggests that multi-purpose cash assistance (MPCA) activated existing economic relationships rather than creating new ones, and in some cases, informal support from relatives and neighbors decreased after households began receiving assistance. The findings highlight the need for pairing MPCA with complementary livelihoods and resilience support to address structural barriers to productive investment.