The main objectives of this evaluation were to provide the relevant services of the European Union, the interested stakeholders with:

• an overall independent assessment of the performance of the Civil Society Fund III, paying particular attention to its different levels of results measured against its expected objectives; and the reasons underpinning such results
• key lessons learned, conclusions and related recommendations in order to improve current and future interventions.

In particular, this evaluation served:

• To understand if the programme results covering outputs, outcomes and impacts are achieved in an efficient and effective manner
• To understand how the Civil Society Fund III has contributed to improved capacity of local civil society organizations in Ethiopia to engage in local and national decision making processes
• To understand how the EU should channel support to civil society in future
• To support wider learning across the civil society sector, the EU Delegation to Ethiopia and program stakeholders