Evaluation of the International Geoscience and Geoparks Programme
Publication date: 22 April 2020 | Report language: EN
The UNESCO International Geoscience and Geoparks Programme (IGGP) supports research and capacity development in Earth Sciences. The programme comprises two sub-programmes: the International Geoscience Programme (IGCP) and the UNESCO Global Geoparks (UGGp). The IGCP mobilises and supports a worldwide network of geoscientists to facilitate scientific cooperation to study the Earth and geological processes. The UGGp is a mechanism of international cooperation, promoting conservation of sites of international geological value through scientific research, education, and the engagement with local communities to promote a sustainable management of geological heritage and local economic development. The IOS Evaluation Office undertook an evaluation of the IGGP, examining its relevance; efficiency; effectiveness and impact; sustainability; partnership and cooperation as well as key achievements and value added of each component of the UNESCO geoscience work to the SDGs, the Sendai Framework and the African Union Agenda 2063. The evaluation found that the IGGP delivers on the targets despite limited resources. Its international, bottom-up, expert-driven nature is a key strength, but improvements could be made to further strengthen the functioning of the Programme.
