Evolution of cash transfers programs in Colombia
The series Documentos de Trabajo Sobre Economía Regional y Urbana is a publication of Banco de la República in Cartagena. The opinions contained in this document are the sole responsibility of the authors and do not commit Banco de la República or its Board of Directors.
Abstract
Social protection programs have become an important and effective tool to mitigate poverty and vulnerability. This document reviews the main cash transfer programs in Colombia. We study their history, targeting, coverage, operation, and fiscal commitments derived from their implementation. Likewise, we review the impact evaluations of these programs and their results in multiple social indicators. We hope that this document represents a starting point to consolidate the existing information about cash transfers in Colombia, in order to comprehensively understand the scope and challenges of these programs, as well as to identify possible areas of research and improvements.
26TH OF MARCH, 2024 - 
