World Bank Economist Dr. Abhilasha Sahay on Cash Transfers & Women's Safety

Dr. Abhilasha Sahay, Economist at the Gender Group, World Bank, shares key insights from her research, Conditional Cash Transfers and Violence Against Women – Does the Type of Violence Matter? This study examines the impact of a conditional cash transfer (CCT) program in the Philippines on various forms of violence against women (VAW). Using a regression discontinuity design, it analyses effects on intimate partner violence (IPV), domestic violence (excluding IPV), and violence outside the home. While no significant impact is found on IPV or external violence, the study reports a decline in emotional domestic violence. Evidence suggests this may be driven by improved household wellbeing, women's empowerment, bargaining power, and social capital. The findings highlight CCT programs' potential to reduce VAW beyond IPV, while also emphasizing the role of program design and context. At the World Bank, Dr. Sahay has led multiple projects aimed at enhancing women's economic participation. She has also served as the Regional Liaison for the Africa region. Prior to her current role, Dr. Sahay worked at the Africa Gender Innovation Lab and the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. Her primary research areas include Applied Microeconomics and Development Economics, with secondary interests in Gender Economics, Economics of Crime, and Family Economics. Dr. Abhilasha Sahay earned her PhD in Economics from the George Washington University and Masters from London School of Economics and Political Science. For more details on Dr. Abhilasha Sahay's research, visit her website: https://www.absahay.com/ This podcast is brought to you by Global Management Consultancy. For more information, please visit www.globalmanagementconsultancy.com. Disclaimer: A. The background music used in this video is the property of its respective developer and is protected by Copyright. Although it is a free version, Business Talk, Global Management Consultancy and Deepak Bhatt do not hold the rights to this music. B. Dr. Abhilasha Sahay has generously shared profound insights from her research topic, “Conditional Cash Transfers and Violence Against Women – Does the Type of Violence Matter?” during her appearance on the Business Talk Podcast Channel. The uploaded video contains copyrighted material; therefore, any modifications to graphics, music, or the presence of the author or host are strictly prohibited. All content is copyrighted © 2025.