Strengthening Evidence-Based Development Cooperation in Switzerland - An Overview

Swiss development cooperation faces the challenge of further increasing its effectiveness in a world of multiple crises and shrinking budgets. A recently published policy paper outlines ways in which the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) can strengthen its leading role in evidence-based development cooperation.

Based on recommendations from the Parliamentary Control of the Administration Committee (PVK), a 2020 peer review, and an ETH study, three key action areas are identified:

1. Strengthening the Use of Evidence The SDC should improve access to existing evidence, for example, through a user-friendly database modeled on that of the German KfW Development Bank. An "evidence hotline" could support SDC staff in the practical use of evidence. Furthermore, evidence should be systematically integrated into project proposals and evaluations.
2. Strengthening the Generation of High-Quality Evidence The policy paper recommends establishing a minimum number of robust evaluations, particularly for strategically important projects and those with larger budgets. At least 1% of Swiss ODA (Official Development Assistance) funds should be reserved for Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL). The reintroduction of the "Impact Awards" could motivate Swiss NGOs to conduct robust studies.
3. Creating an Institutional Evidence Culture Political prioritization of evidence-based development cooperation is central, for instance, by signing the 3ie Global Evidence Commitment. Training for SDC personnel and partners, as well as non-rotating expert positions, should secure the necessary expertise.

These measures aim to increase the effectiveness of Swiss development cooperation through scientifically sound decisions. Evidence-based development cooperation not only benefits the poorest but also meets modern standards of accountability and strengthens public acceptance of development cooperation.

Swiss development cooperation already performs well in international comparison. The proposed improvements should not serve as a pretext for budget cuts but should be understood as an opportunity to further optimize effectiveness.

This blog post is based on the policy paper "Strengthening Evidence-Based Development Cooperation in Switzerland" by Coopération Globale.