Monitoring and Evaluation in Post Conflict Settings

First, the report identifies various constraints and challenges that USAID and its partners face in enforcing sound M&E standards and practices in postconflict societies, particularly in those where the United States has major strategic interests. Understanding these constraints is essential to the development of an effective system that can realistically monitor performance of USAID-funded projects and programs. Second, the report documents “best practice” examples in key sectors and subsectors that can inform future performance M&E functions. It concludes with a set of lessons for USAID and its partners. The purpose of this one-month desk study was to review recent experience, literature, and lessons regarding monitoring and evaluation (M&E) in postconflict settings, with particular emphasis on Iraq and Afghanistan. In addition to a modest published literature, the study draws on the results of several recent workshops and conferences; M&E guidelines from various organizations; 20 key informant interviews; and team members’ firsthand experience with M&E in postconflict settings The report’s main aims are to clarify the unique features that distinguish M&E in postconflict settings and to present emerging best practices for responding to these challenges. Because some of these features and methods differ by sector, the report includes discussion at the sectoral level.