This editorial provides a basic introduction to the role of cash transfers in emergencies — the focus of this mini special issue of Disasters—drawing on ongoing research at the London-based Overseas Development Institute (ODI) (Harvey, 2005). This mini special issue is unique in that it is being published in conjunction with a special issue of Development Policy Review that concentrates on the role of cash transfers in longer-term
development. The papers in both journals highlight the growing interest in cash transfers as an instrument of relief and as part of longer-term social protection and safety net strategies and the linkages between them.