Project Evaluations

A Project evaluation is an independent evaluation carried out within the tripartite framework for technical cooperation. The mutual consent of the parties is therefore required throughout the evaluation process. Project evaluations assess the effectiveness and efficiency of project activities, including 1) concept and design, 2) implementation and 3) outputs, outcomes and impact of projects and sustainability of results. While project evaluations tend to cover a standard set of issues, terms of reference will need to be adjusted to the specific situation, stemming from the questions: what is the purpose of the evaluation? and   who are the stakeholders?

Project evaluations are decided by the parties to the project, through their signature on the project document containing provisions for evaluation. A decision on evaluation, however, may also be taken by the project parties on an ad hoc basis. Specific criteria to decide whether a project evaluation should take place is listed in the annex. Project qualifications are subject to UNODC's evaluation standards.

In conducting project evaluations, UNODC follows the tripartite approach used by UNDP and other agencies. See document evaluation policy and responsibilities (PDF) for a further explanation. Particular attention is drawn to the criteria to decide whether projects must be subject to independent evaluation.

Formats and guidelines for terms of reference, the evaluation report, a evaluation assessment questionnaire (Word) and the evaluation summary are provided on this page. Of even greater importance than formats and guidelines is the choice of the evaluator. Normally this should be one or more national or international experts external to UNODC who were not involved in the design or implementation of the project and have no personal interest in its outcome.