Background

Yemen, facing one of the world’s most severe humanitarian and development crises, continues to suffer from the impacts of prolonged conflict, natural disasters, and economic collapse. The UNDP’s country program has been active in Yemen since the 1960s, adjusting its focus over the decades to address the evolving challenges of the nation. This evaluation, conducted by the Independent Evaluation Office (IEO) of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in collaboration with Triangle, assesses the current program running from 2019 to 2024, with findings intended to shape the forthcoming programming cycle starting in 2025.

Triangle’s Assignment

The assessment conducted by the IEO in collaboration with Triangle aims to provide a thorough understanding of the efficacy and impact of UNDP’s interventions in Yemen across three main outcome areas: livelihood and economic recovery, governance, and peace processes. The evaluation will also determine the alignment of these interventions with the strategic goals set by UNDP and their adaptability to the changing socio-political landscape in Yemen.

Objectives

The assessment had several key objectives:

• Evaluate the Contributions: To assess the contributions of the UNDP’s interventions towards national development results in Yemen, measuring both the immediate and long-term impacts.
• Assess Strategy Effectiveness: To examine the relevance and effectiveness of the UNDP’s strategy in facilitating and leveraging national efforts for achieving development results, particularly in the context of ongoing humanitarian challenges.
• Support Program Development: To provide evaluative evidence that will support the development of the next UNDP Country Programme Document, ensuring it is well-aligned with Yemen’s current and future needs.
• Enhance Accountability: To enhance the accountability of UNDP towards national stakeholders and the Executive Board, ensuring transparency and effectiveness in delivering development aid.

Research Approach and Methodology

This evaluation utilizes a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative research methodologies to provide a comprehensive analysis of UNDP’s impact. Key components of the methodology include:

• Desk Review: Examination of existing documents and reports related to UNDP’s projects and programs in Yemen.
• Key Informant Interviews: Conducted with a wide range of stakeholders, including UNDP personnel, government officials, local NGO representatives, and beneficiaries.
• Focus Group Discussions: Utilized to gather qualitative data from various demographic groups affected by the UNDP’s programs.
• Field Visits: Conducted by local consultants, these visits aim to collect direct observations and additional data from project sites across Yemen.