Do conditionalities matter? A meta-analysis of conditional cash transfer programs and child nutrition in Latin America

Details

Supervisors

Gaspart, Frédéric

Faculty

Faculté des bioingénieurs

Degree label

Master [120] en sciences agronomiques et industries du vivant, à finalité spécialisée: Agricultural, Food and Environmental Policy Analysis

Abstract

This meta-analysis investigates the impact of conditional cash transfer (CCT) program conditionalities on child height-for-age z-scores in Latin America. Two research questions guided the study: whether different conditionalities produce varying effects on child nutrition outcomes, and whether stringent monitoring program design influences program effectiveness. A systematic search identified 22 studies with a total number of 30 observations for inclusion. Results indicate no significant association between the type of conditionalities and child height. This could imply publication bias and thus was inspected accordingly. In addition, the CCTs’ impact on child stunting is inconsistent and influenced by various factors, including program design, implementation, and the broader socioeconomic and political context. These findings suggest that while CCTs may influence other child health and development indicators, their impact on child stunting may be more complex and dependent on factors beyond program design.