The Second Professional Peer Review focused on how well its systems, practices, and stakeholder engagement ensured that evaluations were both credible and useful across the partnership.

Conducted between January and April 2014, it assessed the independence, credibility, and utility of the Independent Evaluation Office (IEO), drawing on an IEO self-assessment, document analysis, and a five-day panel visit that included interviews and workshops with Council members, Secretariat and Agency staff, and IEO personnel.

The review finds that the IEO is independent in both structure and practice, with reporting lines that safeguard impartiality and sufficient resources to exercise its mandate, though further progress is needed to consolidate this foundation.

It also concludes that IEO evaluations are credible, with staff expertise and transparent processes contributing to quality, although more systematic consultation with country-level stakeholders would strengthen legitimacy. Finally, the review notes that evaluation products are widely used but could be made more accessible through clearer communication.

The report recommends reinforcing institutional independence, strengthening stakeholder engagement, and enhancing the clarity and timeliness of evaluation products.