Meta-Evaluation Strengthening of Civil Society (SCS) MTRs

This meta-evaluation focused on the mid-term reviews (MTRs) of a Dutch MFA grant instrument aimed at strengthening civil society (SCS) in their role of lobby & advocacy, the “Policy Framework for Strengthening Civil Society”. This grant instrument was subdivided into five grant instruments: Power of voices, Power of Women; Sexual and Reproductive Health & Rights Partnership Funds (SRHR); Women Peace and Security and Leading from the South (LFS). It provided funding to civil society organizations during the period 1/01/2021 – 31/12/2025. In January 2021, a total of 42 partnerships and four LFS funds started their five-year programmes in over 65 countries. This concerned a total budget of 1.371 billion EUR. The meta-evaluation covered the MTR reports of the 42 partnerships and four LFS funds. It had three main objectives: (i) assess the quality of the MTR reports and disaggregate them according to the overall level of confidence; (ii) synthesise from (sections of) MTRs with a sufficient level of confidence the findings and lessons learned per grant instrument and per confidence disaggregation level; (iii) formulate lessons and recommendations to inform the remainder of the policy framework and the development of future ones. The evaluation team first assessed the quality of MTRs and then, synthesized the findings according to some evaluation criteria, namely: coherence, effectiveness, efficiency, sustainability, locally led development, and gender, inclusion and intersectionality. The goal of all implemented projects was the strengthening of civil society. Specifically, the issues addressed include realizing the rights of women and the LGBTQI+ community, achieving gender equality, protecting the environment, and increasing the consideration and the opportunities for youth. The client expressed great appreciation for the quality of the work and stated the following in the approval letter: “Despite the rather challenging timeline, the ADE team excelled in maintaining deadlines, was clear in its communication with the MFA and delivered a high quality report. Furthermore, the collaborative stance of the ADE team and good collaboration with the MFA MEL advisors is highly appreciated. The meta evaluation has already proved a valuable product and tool which has been used during sessions with MFA partners as well as internal discussions within the ministry.”.


Project Details
Country WORLDWIDE
Start date 2023.09.29
End date 2024.07.16
Client MinBuZa - Ministerie voor Buitenlandse Zaken
Sector EVALUATION
Sub-sector Instrument/Channel
Ref. ADE A625-070