Evaluation of the European Union’s implementation of the DG ECHO Thematic Policy Document ‘Gender: Different Needs, Adapted Assistance’ of July 2013 (2014-2018)

This report presents the results of the evaluation of the implementation of the 2013 DG ECHO policy on Gender. The scope included gender-related activities funded globally from 2014 to 2018 and addressed the three forms of intervention: mainstreaming, targeted actions, and capacity building. The methodology integrated three country studies, four surveys and detailed typologies. Due to COVID-19, field visits were replaced by distance interviews, which limited observation of policy effects among beneficiaries. The evaluation found appropriate coherence with relevant policies at EU and global levels, significant added value to the Call to Action on Protection from Gender-Based Violence in Emergencies, and coordination with Member States. Gender integration has improved in operations. Targeted actions have significantly increased but overlooked some vulnerabilities. Funding of global capacity building by Enhanced Response Capacity was effective. Dialogue with partners about gender is appreciated but not systematic; dialogue is not always linked to the Gender-Age Marker, whose rating process is still often a ‘box ticking’ process. Implementation is supported by DG ECHO experts but knowledge of e-training opportunities is limited. Connectedness is poor, as gender issues are still not among Nexus priorities. Recommendations include more training on Marker, adaptation of targeted actions, and advocacy within Nexus.