Executing Agencies (ExAs) do not yet operate on a level playing field, limiting their contribution to GEF objectives.

The Evaluation of the Experience of ExAs under Expanded Opportunities examines why the anticipated role of seven ExAs had not grown as expected. ExA participation in the portfolio remains modest—less than 10 percent of GEF-3 projects—and many countries continue to rely on the original Implementing Agencies, particularly under the Resource Allocation Framework.

Using portfolio reviews, document analysis, and interviews with ExAs, Implementing Agencies, the Secretariat, and Council members, the evaluation assessed process issues, quality at entry, and institutional participation.

It finds that although ExAs bring technical expertise and comparative advantages, their role has been constrained by structural barriers, including delays in securing legal frameworks, limited involvement in policy and strategy development, and unequal access to decision-making.

The report recommends strengthening ExA participation in policy and strategy discussions, ensuring equal recognition in project preparation and databases, and reviewing the GEF partnership structure to improve inclusivity and effectiveness.