The Policy and Operations Evaluation Department (IOB) is the independent evaluation service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands. We conduct research on the results of Dutch foreign policy for the purpose of accountability and to use the findings for future policymaking. Our work covers the ministry’s entire field of operations, from foreign affairs and foreign trade to development cooperation.

IOB evaluations are available to the public and shared with both houses of Dutch Parliament.

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  1. Dutch efforts in the EU and NATO contribute to the security of the Netherlands

    The Netherlands strengthens NATO and the EU through diplomatic efforts and by making knowledge, manpower and resources available. However, there is room for improvement and a guiding strategy is lacking. – In: Stronger together? Evaluation of Dutch foreign and security policy towards the EU and NATO (2020–2024)

    Image: © Rens Willems
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  2. The Dutch international COVID-19 response

    The Netherlands contributed to alleviating the global consequences of the COVID-19 crisis. However, decisions made were not always in line with stated objectives. – In: The Netherlands’ International Development and Humanitarian Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic (2020-2022)

    Image: © UNICEF Ethiopia
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  3. Matra a useful tool for bilateral relations, effectiveness of programme unclear

    The central and decentral instruments of the programme contribute to cultivating bilateral relations. Programmatically however they lack a clear intervention logic, strategic guidance and measurable results. – In: A seat at the table. Evaluation of the centralised and decentralised Matra instruments (2017-2023)

    Image: © Flickr / European Union
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