Independent evaluation is essential for GEF’s accountability and learning, making periodic peer reviews critical to safeguard independence, credibility, and utility.

The Third Professional Peer Review, conducted in 2020, assesses the Independent Evaluation Office (IEO) in light of institutional reforms, evolving policy demands, and the need for stronger country-level engagement.

The IEO is committed to be a leader in environmental evaluation based on the principles of excellence, effectiveness and efficiency.

Evaluation summary

• The review covers IEO operations from 2014–2020, examining its role as the core of a partnership-wide evaluation function, its products and systems, and its engagement with Council, Agencies, and recipient countries.
• The review confirms that independence and credibility are well established, with staff expertise and transparent processes supporting quality. However, further progress is needed in systematic country engagement, in the quality assurance of knowledge products, and in ensuring that recommendations are consistently followed up.
• Strengthening the Management Action Record system, revising the evaluation policy, deepening country engagement, enhancing product quality, and improving office structure and roles.

Methodology

The review applies document analysis, interviews, and benchmarking against multilateral development banks and United Nations agencies, supplemented by workshops and consultations with Council, Secretariat, and partner stakeholders.