Assessing the Stabilizing Effects of Development Programming: A Review of USAID's Evaluation Efforts in Afghanistan

Abstract

Preface This report reviews the methodology and tools developed by the Measuring Impact of Stabilization Initiative (MISTI) to assess the impact of United States Agency for International Development (USAID) stabilization-focused programming in Afghanistan. We identify strengths and limitations of the MISTI approach, and identify recommendations for improvement. In addition to providing structured feedback to MISTI to enhance future analyses in Afghanistan, the intent of this report is to use the MISTI evaluation to illustrate the types of challenges faced in evaluating stabilization-focused interventions. Therefore this review should be of interest to researchers and policymakers planning or conducting experimental or quasi-experimental impact evaluation in conflict settings.