Evaluation in the EU: An Insight Into the Ecosystem, Practices, and Challenges

Abstract

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the program evaluation ecosystem within the Euro­pean Union (EU), focusing on the methodologies, practices, and the lessons learned from various evaluation processes, especially those regarding the 2014–2020 programming period. It aims to offer a comprehensive understanding of how evaluation practices within the EU contribute to policy devel­opment, program effectiveness, and overall sustain­able growth. The discussion extends to the lessons learned from past and ongoing evaluations. This includes insights into the challenges faced, such as aligning diverse program objectives with overarch­ing EU policies, managing multi-level coordination, ensuring data quality, and addressing the dynamic nature of program environments.

The present study also aims to provide a thor­ough understanding of the evaluation ecosystem in the EU, offering insights into its complexities, the so­phistication of its methodologies and its significant role in steering the EU towards effective policy-mak­ing and sustainable growth. Through this analysis, the article contributes to the broader conversation on the importance and impact of program evalua­tion in the context of EU governance and policy im­plementation.