Mentoring Policy Research Organizations: Project Evaluation Results

The international community has identified a positive link between good governance and economic development. There is an increasing
appreciation of the effective role that local policy research organizations (PROs) in transition and developing countries
can play in providing evidence-based policy recommendations as the basis for sound legislation and in assessing the efficacy
of existing programs. Capacity building programs for PROs are seen as a key component of growth strategies. The donor community
has responded with support for such efforts, which take many forms. On the other hand, the evaluation of the effectiveness
of these capacity building and mentoring programs has been inadequate. This article presents the evaluation of one program,
focusing on two important capacity building program outcomes: improved research capacity and greater effectiveness in the
policy arena. A reflexive design is used. The results suggest the program’s approach is promising.