Suggested Citation: Ernstorfer, Anita, and Isabella Jean. “Alternative Approaches to Evaluating Peacebuilding Initiatives.” Paper presented at the 11th European Evaluation Society Biennial Conference, Dublin, October 1-3. Cambridge, MA: CDA Collaborative Learning Projects, 2014.

This paper reflects on the use of evaluative approaches to peacebuilding and why they are important as alternatives to formal evaluations.

The authors provide a brief overview of the state of the art in peacebuilding evaluation and share lessons derived from CDA’s recent experiences implementing Program Quality Assessments (PQA) and Evaluability Assessments (EA). Both assessment frameworks were adapted for peacebuilding programs and integrate tools from CDA’s Reflecting on Peace Practice Program (RPP).

In addition, the authors also reflect on methods for monitoring and evaluating conflict-sensitivity as well as on the use of feedback mechanisms as additional approaches to improve program quality and to support accountability. The paper identifies several areas for further research and inquiry.

This paper was presented at the 11th European Evaluation Society (EES) Biennial Conference and will be discussed at the American Evaluation Association (AEA) Annual Conference.