FAO/WFP Joint Evaluation of Food Security Cluster Coordination in Humanitarian Action: A Strategic Evaluation

This evaluation of food security cluster coordination mechanisms was jointly commissioned by the Offices of Evaluation of WFP and FAO – the cluster’s lead agencies. The evaluation focuses on the utility and effects of food security coordination at the country level. The evaluation concludes that effective food security coordination creates clear benefits for humanitarian organizations and the coverage of interventions. It is broadly supported by international humanitarian actors, who perceive investments in coordination to be largely worthwhile. However, certain constraints undermine their relevance to operations and put current achievements at risk. The evaluation recommends advocating with the Inter-Agency Standing Committee to reduce the demands of system-wide processes; clarifying roles and responsibilities in the coordination architecture; advocating for greater donor commitment to food security coordination; enhancing the lead agencies’ commitment to and capacity for food security coordination; strengthening the Global Support Team’s capacity to deploy experienced coordination staff; mentoring to promote operationally relevant coordination; and enhancing the involvement of national, local and non-traditional humanitarian actors.