Assessing GEF support in Syria raises questions about how targeted investments can balance immediate gains with long-term sustainability. 

Syria was selected for evaluation because, despite having a relatively small portfolio, it receives individual allocations in climate change and group allocations in biodiversity. Conducted from October 2008 to April 2009, the review covered 10 national projects and Syria’s participation in regional and global initiatives, assessing relevance, effectiveness, efficiency, and sustainability.

GEF support to biodiversity improved protected area management and promoted alternative livelihoods, though sustainability requires stronger financial mechanisms.

Climate change projects influenced energy efficiency laws but lacked data on emission reductions.

Other focal areas delivered groundwork for policy and capacity building, but land degradation and inland waters remain unaddressed. The Small Grants Programme achieved more locally sustained outcomes than larger projects, and national ownership was stronger for domestic than regional initiatives.

The report recommends expanding support for land and water management, creating frameworks to sustain results, targeting countries with limited access to finance, and establishing a permanent national GEF coordination committee.