Equitable allocation of resources is critical for ensuring that GEF funds generate the greatest global environmental benefits while maintaining country ownership.

At the Council’s request, the Independent Evaluation Office conducted a review of the System for Transparent Allocation of Resources (STAR) covering the GEF-6 period (2014–18), using portfolio analysis, surveys, and country consultations. Building on the findings of the 2014 Midterm Evaluation, which informed adjustments for GEF-6, this review assesses how STAR has performed in practice during the replenishment.

The evaluation finds that allocations remain largely driven by benefits indexes, which appropriately channel resources to countries with high potential for global environmental gains. Adjustments to the gross domestic product index and floors increased the share of least developed countries and small island developing states, though non-LDC and non-SIDS countries faced sharper reductions when replenishment shortfalls emerged. STAR has helped smaller countries access resources more equitably, while utilization of cross-focal flexibility and incentive schemes increased under GEF-6.

The report recommends strengthening quality controls for allocation calculations, improving data reliability for indexes, and ensuring greater transparency in managing shortfalls and country-level adjustments.