This study examined the role of networks and reciprocated assistance in curtailing the risk arising from an absence of centralised social protection programmes. Given how non-state interventions constitute a key part of the endogenous networks to social risk reduction, we also explored how the knowledge of exogenous emergency relief is localised and utilised. In examining these issues, in-depth interviews were done with a purposively selected sample of informal workers, their representative associations, and development partners. Amongst other factors, the findings showed that (i) informal mutual assistance networks are more adaptive, responsive, and inclusive and thus more preferred over exogenous relief — with complementarity between the two being low (ii) ex-post bereavement mutual assistance networks have stronger ties with a more versatile, knowledge sharing–centred utility that transcends the circulation/sharing of cash, food, and credit. The findings contribute to the scholarship on social welfare rights and networks in the context of reciprocated assistance and emergency relief.

这项研究探讨了网络和互惠援助在减少因缺乏集中社会保护计划而产生的风险方面的作用。鉴于非国家干预如何构成社会风险降低内生网络的关键部分，我们还探讨了外生紧急救援知识如何本地化和利用。在研究这些问题时，我们对有目的地选择的非正规工人、他们的代表协会和发展伙伴进行了深入访谈。除其他因素外，研究结果表明，(i) 非正式互助网络更具适应性、响应性和包容性，因此比外源性救济更受青睐——两者之间的互补性较低 (ii) 丧亲后互助网络具有更强的与更通用的关系，以知识共享为中心的效用，超越现金、食品和信贷的流通/共享。研究结果有助于对互惠援助和紧急救济背景下的社会福利权利和网络的研究。