Evaluation of the ECHO response to the Syrian crisis 2012-2014 : final report : June 2016

This report provides an overall independent evaluation of ECHO's response to the Syrian crisis over the period of 2012-2014, covering Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, Iraq, and Turkey. The evaluation draws on a range of different sources of evidence including project data, interviews, field trips and a literature review. The evaluation concludes that ECHO was successful in translating a substantial allocation of funds into improved living conditions for refugees, internally displaced persons (IDPs) and other affected populations inside Syria through a rapid response across five countries, in both camp and non-camp settings. Detailed conclusions are made concerning the speed and coverage of ECHO's funding; the adaptability of its response to the unique features of this crisis; the contribution that ECHO made to coordination, advocacy and the link between relief, rehabilitation and development; and on dealing with the protracted nature of the crisis. A set of five strategic recommendations are made for the future response of ECHO to the crisis in Syria, concerning the provision of funding allocations in the medium-term; the further adaptation of the response to the specific context; the conduct of coordination activities; dialogue with national authorities; and the building of greater synergies with EU Delegations and EC funding instruments.