Learning Talk: Trusted Evidence and Learning in the GCF

Summary

The IEU held a learning talk on how the GCF can use trusted evidence to inform policies, achieve portfolio targets, and, most importantly, achieve impact on the ground.  The learning talk highlighted the importance of learning for the 50by30 vision and Strategic Plan 2024-2027, and how the IEU is using trusted evidence from impacts evaluations to enhance learning within the GCF.

Learning Outcomes

• The GCF is a learning institution which needs to utilize knowledge better to improve programming to ensure impacts on the ground.
• The GCF Secretariat aims to empower developing countries, mobilize the private sector, and improve access at the same time as protecting the most vulnerable.
• The GCF Secretariat is increasingly using results and evaluations for learning and decision-making. Examples given include structured forums for stakeholder engagement and knowledge exchange.
• The GCF Secretariat’s portfolio targets for 2024-2027, such as 190 to 280 million beneficiaries adopting low-emission climate-resilient agricultural and fisheries practices, should mainly be seen as aspirational.
• The IEU’s LORTA programme provides causal evidence on the outcomes and impacts of GCF projects which the GCF Secretariat can consider when working with AEs in the development and refinement of funding proposals.
• The impact evaluation of UNDP Bangladesh project FP069 found that the project improved household income by 43 percent and improved food security.
• The LORTA impact evaluation of FP069 also found that whilst the project led to more women engaging in at least one income-generating activity, impact on women’s empowerment for decision making may take more time.
• LORTA insights can be better incorporated into future programming and readiness support through better institutionalized feedback loops, increased collaboration, and ongoing dialogue and partnerships within the GCF IEU.

Panelists

• Henry Gonzales, Deputy Executive Director, GCF
• Andreas Reumann, Head of the IEU
• Dr. Michell Dong, Impact Evaluation Specialist, IEU

Discussant

• Lena Kern, Senior Specialist, Division of Mitigation and Adaptation

Moderator

• Dr. Martin Prowse, Evaluation Specialist, IEU