Development impact evaluation: new trends and challenges

In: Evidence & policy: a journal of research, debate and practice, Volume 2, Issue 3, p. 385-393

Abstract

English
This article explores the implications associated with the growing emphasis on the use of impact evaluation studies of interventions among the international development community. It argues that: (1) impact evaluations, particularly when structured and conducted within a comparative framework, can be a fundamental input for policy and programme design; (2) impact evaluations are international public goods and thus there are serious coordination issues that need to be addressed to achieve an optimal supply; and (3) there are complex challenges involved in setting up that coordination in such a way that it properly serves the interests and needs of developing countries.