1 - Evaluating Risk: A Discussion on Navigating Complex Environments

Abstract Information: This gathering seeks to understand and share lessons learned on how to effectively and safely garner evidence and learning from vulnerable populations in violence-prone areas. This session will present findings from a mid-term performance evaluation conducted on a project in the Northern Triangle. The evaluation sought to determine how effective the implementer was at improving workers’ rights and supporting workers’ organizations in various sectors in Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras. Due to the violence-prone dynamics that exist in labor rights and union organizing in these countries, specific measures were put in place to ensure learning was taking place, while also protecting key stakeholders. The evaluation also sought to ensure that all relevant stakeholders were given a voice, including workers, union representatives, implementing partners, and government actors. The evaluation further explored how these actors worked together, or against each other, to achieve the project objectives. To conduct data collection and build dissemination products, the evaluation had to ensure Do Harm Principles were prioritized and a specific focus was placed on complexity-aware methods of evaluation. The session will further engage participants in a dialogue on best practices and lessons learned for working with stakeholders in violence-prone environments. Participants will share their own experiences in designing and implementing sensitive evaluations, highlight best practices, and explore opportunities to become more effective and impactful evaluators in conflict-affected and high-risk areas.