Action Aid: Action for Social Justice Myanmar 2020-2022

Overall the broader impact of the programme is difficult to assess given that the external evaluation was not able to compare results against a set baseline. Given the context changes the planned baseline was only carried out during the spring of 2021. The main issue linked to the programme was the lack of ability to execute according to a set plan. The programme went through many revisions and quite early on in the programme it became clear that the partner did not have a strong capacity to implement the intended activities. Communication was often lacking with the partner and they were frequently late with answering to requests and submitting new plans and reports. It is clear in hindsight to see that the Cooperation Partner did not have the capacity to adapt their programming in order to implement the programme. While it was initially difficult to determine whether this was due to force majeure (covid-19 and then the military coup) or their own lacking, in hindsight discussions about early termination in order to redirect funds might have been warranted.

The overall objective of the programme is "To secure social, economic and ecological justice and the realisation of human rights by promoting the interests and voices of the poorest and most marginalised people, mainstreaming a feminist perspective, and addressing interconnected development and humanitarian issues to affect sustainable change".  The programme has three outcome areas: Outcome 1: A more inclusive, tolerant society and a greater realisation of civil and political rights through 1) enhanced civic participation of grassroots CSOs and youth, 2) strengthened capacity of civil society and 3) more democratic and accountable institutions (govt and NSAs). Outcome 2: Empowered and capacited women increase their participation in public life, engage in decision processes, and increase their access to gender-responsive public services, specifically related to gender-based violence. Outcome 3: As a result of the i) active participation of vulnerable groups (particularly IDPs and host community, women and ethnic groups), ii) inclusive preparedness efforts, and iii) the adoption of climate resilient solutions, communities are more resilient to the impact of climate change and disasters.