Terminal Evaluation of the UNEP-GEF Project “Advancing Sustainable Resource Management to Improve Livelihoods and Protect Biodiversity in Palau” (GEF ID 5208) 2016 – 2023

This report is a terminal evaluation of a UNEP/GEF Full-Sized Project (GEF ID 5208) implemented between Q4 2016 and Q3 2023, entitled “Advancing Sustainable Resource Management to Improve Livelihoods and Protect Biodiversity in Palau”. The project’s goal was to effectively and sustainably use biodiversity and maintain ecosystem goods and services in Palau by building institutional capacity to integrate the Palau Protected Area Network (PAN) with the Sustainable Land Management (SLM) initiative, and fostering a ridge-to-reef approach across and within these initiatives. The evaluation sought to assess project performance (in terms of relevance, effectiveness and efficiency), and determine outcomes and impacts (actual and potential) stemming from the project, including their sustainability. The evaluation has two primary purposes: (i) to provide evidence of results to meet accountability requirements, and (ii) to promote learning, feedback, and knowledge sharing through results and lessons learned among UNEP, the GEF, the MAFE, PAN Office and PAN Fund, BOA, BOT, BOE, PICRC, PCS, BNM, EQBP, PCC, PALARIS, NEPC, all state governments involved, and other project partners.