Evaluation of DG ECHO’s response to the humanitarian crises in Sudan and South Sudan (2011-2015)

This independent evaluation covers the 2011-2015 support provided by the European Commission (ECHO) in relation to the humanitarian crises in Sudan and South Sudan. The evaluation found that the support was very relevant and flexible. The support targeted the most vulnerable groups, and was mostly in alignment with European Commission policies. The support in terms of coordination, logistics and humanitarian advocacy contributed to the delivery of results, which also benefitted the wider humanitarian community. ECHO's strong stance on humanitarian principles is applauded, but also poseschallenges with regard to access to crisis-affected people. The support was implemented effectively through high-quality projects, planned outputs were largely achieved, and – when feasible – ensured sustainability of facilities. There were few activities supporting ‘Linking Relief, Rehabilitation and Development’ (LRRD) and resilience due to limited opportunities, compounded by short funding-cycles. Contracts were managed efficiently although there were delays in contract approval, and systems for documenting and utilising lessons learnt were lacking. It is recommended that ECHO i) further strengthens its strategy for a principled approach and advocacy; ii) continues to support and strengthen coordination; iii) considers how to scale up LRRD and resilience efforts when feasible; and iv) strengthens systems for documenting and disseminating lessons learnt.