Evaluation Challenges, Practices, and Use in the Commonwealth Caribbean

Abstract More than 130 voluntary organizations for professional evaluation exist globally. Still, in many parts of the world, significant work is needed to develop an evaluation culture. This chapter will share empirical data on public and private sector evaluation practices from four countries in the Commonwealth Caribbean. It will also discuss challenges experienced by evaluators who have worked in the region. As countries commence rebuilding efforts post COVID-19, evidence-based data are more critical than ever. Simultaneously, countries must work toward Agenda 2030 and proactively plan for long-term resilience and sustainability. Policy makers have a momentous task ahead, compounded by myriad challenges. This chapter will examine those challenges and explain the urgency in cultivating a vibrant monitoring and evaluation (M&E) culture, since M&E plays a central role in evidence-based data—the key to futuristic planning, development, and progress.