Civil society participation is vital for accountability and for reflecting local realities in global environmental governance, yet the GEF Civil Society Organization (CSO) Network’s contribution to the Partnership had not been independently assessed.

At the Council’s request, the Independent Evaluation Office launched an evaluation in 2014, drawing on document reviews, extensive consultations, and targeted stakeholder interviews.

The evaluation finds that the Network remains relevant and supports knowledge sharing and civil society engagement in GEF policies and programs. Its activities, however, are concentrated at the global level and remain distant from the country level, limiting its ability to reflect national perspectives and fully serve its members.

The Network has improved its organizational structure but continues to face governance challenges, and its role is not clearly defined within the evolving GEF architecture. Effectiveness is further constrained by limited resources and the absence of a shared vision for its future.

The report recommends developing a contemporary vision for the Network, establishing clear rules of engagement with the Secretariat, strengthening participation at all levels, and improving governance through clearer mandates and accountability mechanisms.