Synthesis of ex ante evaluations of rural development programmes 2014-2020 : final report

This evaluation study concerns the analysis and synthesis of the ex ante evaluations of Rural Development Programmes and National Rural Network Programmes 2014-2020, with a focus on four evaluation themes: a) process of the ex ante evaluations, b) intervention logic and internal coherence, c) external coherence and added value and d) six thematic clusters including (i) investments, (ii) knowledge transfer, advisory services and European Innovation Partnership, (iii) agri-environment-climate, (iv) forestry, (v) young farmers, small farmers and areas with natural constraints, and (vi) risk management. The findings incorporated in the study are based on evidence obtained by geographic experts through a) desk research, b) interviews with representatives from the Managing Authorities and c) a survey addressed to Managing Authorities and key stakeholders. The study concludes that the process of the ex ante evaluations and the external coherence of the RDPs are well documented and satisfactory, while the internal coherence, in terms of needs' prioritisation and description of links between the planned actions - outputs and expected outputs - results, needs to be further enhanced. The dissemination of good practices, especially regarding new measures and co-ordination mechanisms, is highlighted as the key recommendation.