Exploring the role of cash-based interventions in alleviating food insecurity among the forcibly displaced: the case of Rohingya refugees, Bangladesh

Food insecurity remains a critical determinant of health, disproportionately affecting displaced populations. Individuals forced to flee due to conflict, disasters, or economic hardship face increased challenges in accessing food, a situation worsened by COVID-19-related disruptions in food supply and relief efforts. This study examines how cash incentives mitigate food insecurity among forcibly displaced Rohingya communities in Bangladesh's Cox's Bazar district, utilizing data from the 2020-2021 Cox's Bazar high-frequency survey. Data were collected among 5020 participants. We employed bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses to identify factors associated with food insecurity. Results from the multivariate model highlight that households receiving cash incentives had significantly lower odds of experiencing food insecurity (OR = 0.19, CI = 0.09-0.38), even after adjusting for demographic and socioeconomic factors. Additionally, females (OR = 3.44, CI = 1.41-5.36), the unemployed (OR = 3.45, CI = 2.67-6.13), individuals with declining incomes (OR = 1.46, CI = 1.39-5.44), and larger households (those with more than five members) (OR = 1.89, CI = 1.35-4.47) were found to be at significantly higher risk of food insecurity. Based on these findings, we recommend that targeted cash transfer programs be institutionalized within broader national food security strategies. These programs should prioritize high-risk groups, such as unemployed individuals, female-headed households, and large families, and be integrated with employment initiatives and income support mechanisms. Furthermore, addressing social determinants such as housing and healthcare, alongside economic support, will contribute to more sustainable food security. Linking cash assistance with economic resilience strategies such as wage subsidies, social protection schemes, and vocational training can help reduce dependency on temporary relief and empower displaced populations toward long-term stability.