Implementing policy change project : mid-term evaluation

The evaluation covers the period 1990-1993. The project is unusually well-designed. A.I.D.'s project leadership in Washington has been outstanding, and the personnel recruited by the contractors have been impressive. The project has been very successful in helping the initial group of host countries to implement policy changes, although it is too early to judge the sustainability of these changes. While it is not certain that all the elements of strategic management have been applied, early success of the field projects implies that most have. Application of some of the management concepts and techniques has been outstanding. The involvement of various stakeholders in planning the implementation of policy changes in several field projects has been impressive. The perception that the project is rendering worthwhile assistance in a complex and difficult area is evidenced in the positive statements from host country participants and a higher than expected level of Mission buy-ins. The project clearly warrants continuation, with increased emphasis on ensuring the sustainability of project concepts and processes not only in host countries but in A.I.D. itself. Regional buy-ins have come mostly from the Africa Bureau, and senior Agency personnel have shown little interest in the project. Further, the current reorganization of A.I.D. and funding cutbacks pose new challenges to the project. It is recommended that the project approach be adapted for use in Eastern Europe and the New Independent States. The project also needs a suitable home within A.I.D., possibly the democratic development office within the new Global Bureau, or the new office concerned with economic growth.