German Development Cooperation in Fragile Contexts

The report examines how varying definitions of fragility—covering state authority, administrative capacity, and legitimacy—shape development cooperation priorities, as well as the design and implementation of evaluations.

It highlights systemic challenges to evaluation quality, such as limited data availability, access restrictions, and the complexities of measuring outcomes in volatile settings. Additionally, the report evaluates the effectiveness of German approaches to promoting peace, security, and institutional development, identifying gaps where better coordination and transparency in measuring fragility are needed.

Structured across several key chapters, the report first provides a detailed discussion on the concept of fragility and its practical implications for development cooperation. It then explores the difficulties of conducting M&E in fragile contexts, offering evidence-based insights into the barriers created by weak infrastructure, conflict, and instability. Drawing on case examples, it outlines innovative tools and approaches—such as the use of digital technologies for data collection, participatory evaluation methods, and conflict-sensitive frameworks—that can help address these challenges.

Building on this analysis, the report concludes with actionable recommendations to strengthen M&E systems. These include investing in local evaluation capacity, allocating sufficient resources for evaluation in fragile settings, and ensuring that frameworks remain flexible and context-specific. The report also calls for improved coordination among stakeholders to align M&E processes with the realities of fragility and enhance their ability to generate meaningful, reliable evidence for decision-making.