The 2013 APR reviews portfolio performance with emphasis on strengthening sustainability, improving monitoring systems, and streamlining project cycle processes.

The tenth Annual Performance Report (APR 2013) provides an overview of the performance of the GEF portfolio, including first-time coverage of 160 completed projects—the largest cohort to date—representing $630.8 million in GEF funding. The analysis draws on terminal evaluation reports submitted between October 2012 and December 2013, validated by Agency and independent review, and includes substudies on project cycle time lags and the effects of cofinancing on preparation.

The evaluation finds that 79 percent of projects achieved satisfactory outcomes, consistent with portfolio averages, though performance continues to lag in Africa, small island developing states, least developed countries, and fragile states.

Sustainability remains a challenge, with only 58 percent of projects rated moderately likely or above, and financial and institutional risks frequently cited as threats.

While cofinancing ratios have increased, Secretariat requests for higher commitments during preparation may contribute to delays, and project cycle standards are often unmet.

The report recommends improving monitoring and evaluation systems, addressing persistent risks to sustainability, streamlining the project cycle, and refining the Management Action Record process to ensure adoption of Council decisions remains both timely and useful.