Review of CGIAR Management Response System to Independent Evaluations

The CGIAR Independent Advisory and Evaluation Service[KB1] (IAES) 2022‒24 Multi-Year Workplan (2021; re-confirmed 2024) provides for the review of CGIAR’s Management Response (MR) System. The CGIAR IAES Evaluation Function conducted the review. Aligned with both accountability and learning objectives, the review assessed effectiveness and efficiency of the CGIAR MR system.

The review team adopted a participatory approach, including a hybrid short-form workshop to refine recommendations with key stakeholders (Montpellier, France, 17 December 2024). Review methods included document review, semi-structured interviews, benchmarking review (report accessible online), and an online survey. Targeted analytical methods encompassed expert analysis of the MR Tracker's usability, and a case study focused on the Digital & Data thematic area. Conclusions were drawn through triangulation of data sourced from various methods and resources.

CGIAR management developed a formal MR to the review; the CGIAR Integrated Partnership Board provided feedback on the review report and related MR. IAES also developed its MR as part of the evaluand and as a receiver of one of the three recommendations.

Pursuant to Article 6.1 t of the CGIAR System Framework, the System Council endorsed the review of the MR System Report and Annexes presented by IAES (Decision Number: M21-EDP9; on 18 April 2025).

Learn more about effective management engagement for evaluations and management response within CGIAR and explore the Management Engagement and Response (MER) Resource Hub: https://iaes.cgiar.org/evaluation/management-engagement-and-response-mer-resource-hub