Evaluation of the International Geoscience and Geoparks Programme
Technopolis has recently supported UNESCO in evaluating its International Geoscience and Geoparks Programme (IGGP), which supports research and capacity development in Earth Sciences. The IGGP 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. It supports the sustainable management of geological heritage and local economic development. Our evaluation examines various aspects of the IGCP:
- relevance
- efficiency
- effectiveness
- impact
- sustainability
- partnership and cooperation
We also explored key achievements of each component of the UNESCO geoscience and their contributions to the Sustainable Development Goals, the Sendai Framework and the African Union Agenda 2063.
Our 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 strengthen the functioning of the Programme further. Read the full report here.
