Summary of the Evaluation of Global Affairs Canada’s Contribution to the Middle East Strategy
The Evaluation of Global Affairs Canada’s Contribution to the Middle East Strategy is a high-level assessment of the extent to which Global Affairs Canada (GAC) contributed to the expected results of the Strategy from FY2016/17-FY2018/19 across its four pillars: humanitarian assistance, development, security and stabilization and diplomatic engagement. It was requested by the Middle East Relations Division (ESA) on short notice to inform the Strategy renewal process. Given the short timelines and limited review period, this is a formative type of evaluation.
The evaluation focuses on GAC’s contribution to expected results and outcomes, as requested by the Program, while considering questions of relevance, design and delivery to a limited extent. The objective was to provide the most useful information for decision-makers on areas where GAC had added-value, without providing a comprehensive statement on the Middle East Strategy.
Findings
- The additional resources provided under the Middle East Strategy substantially increased GAC`s presence across pillars in Jordan, Lebanon, Iraq and to a lesser extent, vis-à-vis Syria.
- Realities on the ground and the rapidly evolving nature of the crises in the region affected the Department’s ability to fully implement programming in certain areas and have a greater contribution.
- While diplomatic efforts yielded notable successes, this pillar was perceived to be the least clearly articulated one within the Strategy.
- The pressure for programs to staff positions, establish offices and spend allocations under tight timelines impeded the up-front strategic planning required to optimize coherence and plan for the sustainability of Canada’s efforts.
Considerations
Sexual violence targeting men and boys emerged as an area of concern in the region. Canada’s prioritization of Gender-based Analysis Plus means that staff are well-trained and aware of the ways in which a person‘s identity may affect the drivers, risk and impact of, sexual violence. GAC could consider further integrating male victims of sexual violence into its programming priorities in the Middle East.
Recommendations
- Focus on areas of engagement in which Canada has added value
- Promote joint planning and integrated programming across business lines
- Plan for sustainability of results and an exit strategy, if required
- Strengthen the Diplomatic Pillar
