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Financial support measures that strengthen WASH continuity and affordability in the time of COVID-19

This technical note develops a conceptual framework and provides guidance on how financial support measures can ensure continuity of water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) services. Two major pathways can be used in conjunction for distributing funds to different population groups, including (a) payments to providers of WASH goods and service (“market support”), and (b) cash transfers or vouchers given directly to households for the purchase of goods and services. The preferred pathway for specific population groups will depend on the mechanisms of social protection already operating and the types of service provider (e.g. formal or informal). It is critical to coordinate financing mechanisms for WASH with the financing of the provision of other essential goods and services.