Why evaluation in MSF?

Learning from action requires reflection

MSF is all about action, being fast and reactive is the organisation’s strength. Systematic and objective evaluation processes are important opportunities to reflect, explore and capture the many experiences teams make in the challenging context MSF works in. Evaluations are therefore a much needed tool for organisational learning.

A critical element for improving quality

Being able to evaluate effectiveness and identify factors for success or failure is critical to further improve the quality of MSFs work. Just as important is the integration of the evaluation results in ongoing operations.

Giving account on intentions and actions

Since the La Mancha process * the internal push for more accountability has resulted in a stronger quest for evaluations. Evaluations are a mean for MSF to improve accountability at all different levels towards MSF stakeholders: within each operational centre, in the movement, in the field towards partners and patients, in our home society vis-à-vis donors, media and the public.

The privilege to choose

Humanitarian aid evaluation only became mainstream in the last two decades, and until today are often driven by big donors. MSF being financially independent still receives very little pressure from outside to evaluate. The privilege therefore is that MSF can choose what to evaluate based on internal priorities and learning needs.

* An internal reflection and review process in 2005/2006

On February 8th, the 2nd MSF Evaluation Day will take place in the MSF office in Brussels. 
This day provides an opportunity to share examples of recent evaluations and approaches between different evaluation practitioners and MSF sections. 
Please register until February 3rd with anneli.eriksson(at)stockholm.msf.org

Download agenda