Governments have historically been reluctant to give direct cash assistance to citizens, preferring instead to give aid in the form of vouchers. However, that all changed with the sudden dawn of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Widespread stimulus cheques and furlough payments were a lifeline to millions of people around the world. Since this form of support is much easier and quicker to administer than in-kind payments, these schemes have been credited with keeping economies (mostly) afloat during and after the crisis.

Now discover 13 incredible inventions that were stolen from their creators

Super Glue to space flight: innovations that came out of global crises