This discussion paper synthesizes the evidence for the effectiveness of cash transfers for HIV prevention and explores implications and opportunities for advancing research and policy agendas. Much of this evidence centres on girls and young women, who bear significant HIV burdens, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, and often have less control over
their sexual choices than do men. Many forms of transfers exist that may contribute to HIV prevention. These include in-kind transfers such as food transfers, supply-side cash transfers given to health service providers to encourage uptake of services, and vouchers/monetary rewards to reinforce healthier behaviours among people who inject drugs
(i.e. contingency management). This paper focuses only on demand-side cash transfers that have the potential to prevent sexual transmission of HIV, which accounts for the greatest share of new infections. The intended audience is policymakers, programme managers and researchers, especially those who are considering building or modifying cash transfer programmes to maximize HIV and health benefits.