Early Aid, Livelihood Protection, or Both?
This research brief draws on the strongest impact evaluations to date to clarify when anticipatory action improves welfare and when it can protect livelihoods and contribute to longer-term resilience. The evidence shows that anticipatory action does not deliver the same outcomes everywhere. Its effects vary based on factors such as shock severity, the design of pre-arranged financing, and the feasibility of early actions. Recognizing these differences is essential for aligning expectations with what anticipatory action can realistically achieve and for ensuring programmes are fit for purpose.
This was originally published here.

Publish Date
February 09, 2026
Resource Type
PDF, 535.53 KB
Authors
Alex Humphrey and Jon Kurtz
Year
2026
Country
Bangladesh, Mongolia, Nepal, Nigeria
Content Type
Briefing Sheet / Fact Sheet
Thematic Area
Evidence, Livelihoods



