Why the World Needs an International Federation of Professional Evaluators – Now More Than Ever

There isn't one single, overarching international federation specifically for professional evaluators. We have several international initiatives that have succeeded to push evaluation as a proffesion.  It is now widwly rwcognized and trusted by decision makers worldwide.  We have brilliant minds working tirelessly across the globe, conducting insightful evaluations and generating invaluable data. But are we maximizing our collective potential? Are we speaking loud enough to be heard by those who hold the power to make real change? I argue that it's time – now more than ever – to establish an International Federation of Professional Evaluators.

Why do we Need an internationalfederation?

Amplify Our Impact: A global federation would unite our voices, giving us a powerful platform to advocate for the importance of evaluation in evidence-based decision-making. Imagine the influence we could wield on a global scale to promote better policies, programs, and investments.

Elevate Professional Standards: By establishing shared standards and ethical guidelines, we can ensure quality and consistency in evaluation practice worldwide. This would not only enhance the credibility of our profession but also protect the integrity of the data we generate.

Foster Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing: A global network would connect evaluators across borders, facilitating the exchange of ideas, best practices, and innovative methodologies. This cross-pollination of knowledge is crucial for tackling complex global challenges.

Strengthen Capacity Building: A federation could play a vital role in supporting the professional development of evaluators, particularly in regions with limited resources. By providing access to training, mentorship, and resources, we can empower evaluators worldwide to conduct high-quality evaluations.

Promote Diversity and Inclusion: Evaluation should be conducted with cultural sensitivity and inclusivity. A global federation would provide a platform for promoting diverse perspectives and ensuring that marginalized voices are heard.

Why Now?

The world is facing unprecedented challenges – climate change, social inequalities, economic instability, and public health crises. Now, more than ever, we need robust evaluation systems to guide effective solutions and ensure that resources are used wisely. An International Federation of Professional Evaluators would equip us to:

Respond to Global Crises: By sharing knowledge and coordinating efforts, we can contribute to effective responses to global emergencies and promote sustainable development.

Address Disinformation: In an era of "fake news" and misinformation, evaluators play a critical role in providing evidence-based insights and promoting transparency.

Drive Social Change: By evaluating the impact of social programs and policies, we can contribute to addressing inequalities and promoting social justice.

The time for discussion is over. It's time for action. Let's come together as a global community of evaluators to build a stronger, more connected, and impactful profession. Let's create an International Federation of Professional Evaluators and ensure that evaluation takes its rightful place at the forefront of progress. Leave your comments.