Paper short abstract:

Distinctions between state and non-state social welfare often blur in conflict-affected countries like Yemen. We present research on what the mix of state, non-state and semi-state actors providing social assistance mean for accountability, effective provision and capacities of institutions.

Paper long abstract:

Yemen has divided governance and the majority of the population ruled by de-facto authorities. Welfare is a mix of humanitarian aid provided by international organisations in partnership with local actors and externally financed assistance provided through a pre-conflict social protection system managed by para-statal and state institutions and overseen by international agencies. Drawing on research due to be published as an IDS working paper in March/April 2024 we will present reflections on what this complex mix of actors implies for the accountability and effectiveness of assistance and the capacities of state and non-state institutions involved in providing and mediating social assistance. Yemen has been held up as an impressive example of how existing social protection systems and capacities can be maintained and supported even during a prolonged war. And surprising pockets of effectiveness have been maintained within para-statal organisations. However, capacities to tackle social inequities and exclusions have been marginalised as international aid agencies and donors have focussed systems strengthening efforts on the narrowly technical aspects of maintaining and building payment systems. Local civil society organisations have played narrowly defined sub-contractual roles in the delivery of assistance while funding to local organisations continues to be at low levels. There has been a reluctance to tackle the political challenges of opening up who is targeted for assistance and the value of the transfers, alongside budgetary pressures squeezing ration sizes, with implications for the accountability, equity and effectiveness of assistance.