Terminal evaluations are a core requirement of the GEF Evaluation Policy, providing a comprehensive and systematic account of project performance at completion.

They assess design, implementation, and achieved results while supporting learning, accountability, and transparency across the GEF partnership. Issued in January 2024, these updated guidelines replace the 2017 version and align GEF practice with evolving policies, programming shifts, and international evaluation standards. They place stronger emphasis on theory of change, additionality, coherence, integration, environmental and social safeguards, and knowledge management—reflecting the GEF’s commitment to robust and consistent evaluation practice.

A terminal evaluation is expected to provide a comprehensive and systematic account of the evaluated project by assessing its design, implementation, and observed results at project completion.

Evaluation overview

• Persistent challenges include uneven reporting across Agencies, inconsistent application of rating scales, and limited analysis of sustainability and adaptive management.
• Evaluations add the most value when they document course corrections, capture good practices, and show how struggling projects recovered or generated benefits beyond completion.
• Recommendations emphasize harmonizing reporting, applying performance ratings more consistently, and embedding lessons systematically into GEF databases and decision-making.

Methodology

The guidelines draw on the GEF Evaluation Policy (2019), the IEO’s ethical framework, and international standards such as OECD DAC and UNEG, informed by portfolio review and broad consultation.