Editor’s Note

Last year, I stated here that “evaluation is an endeavor that connects individuals.” This year, we present to you the fruits of our efforts as we have continued to question the meaning of these words. I would also like to extend my gratitude to all those who have been involved in these efforts.

We firmly believe that “evaluation has value only when it is utilized.” To achieve this goal, we strive for evaluation where both the evaluators and those being evaluated fully express their minds to each other, evaluation that serves as the sun rather than the north wind, and evaluation that transcends the barriers between true intentions and public stance.

However, lofty aspirations alone cannot change the current reality. To bring about change, there is much work that must be done: caring for others, verification of facts, logical reasoning, sound judgment, consistent validation, extensive preparation, and sincere communication... We have received cooperation from many individuals.

The evaluations we conduct are “ex-post evaluations” that look back at the past. We have repeatedly discussed with people of different positions and perspectives, and have experienced many twists and turns and setbacks. Meanwhile, we have reflected on the times when they sowed and nurtured seeds, and witnessed their abundant harvest. I believe we have been able to connect people beyond time. This is all thanks to the evaluators, those being evaluated, and those who supported us from the sidelines. We appreciate your cooperation.

Through our evaluation process, we connect individuals in 2024, link the past and present with the evaluation results, and will apply these learnings to the future.

Allow me to reiterate: “Evaluation is an endeavor that connects individuals, transcending even time itself.” Being able to experience this has been a precious harvest for us gained over the course of a year.

We offer this booklet with the hope that you will share the same experience. Please savor it thoroughly along with each evaluation report. We take pride in these rich offerings even where they present challenges.

ARAI Kazuhisa
Director, ODA Evaluation Division, Minister’s Secretariat, Ministry of Foreign Affairs