Public policy evaluation in the Global South: context and theoretical framework

This chapter aims to provide readers with the necessary context and theoretical grounding to engage with the in-depth analyses and case studies presented in subsequent chapters, thereby fostering our understanding of public policy evaluation in the Global South. This chapter addresses the complex interplay of historical, political, economic, and social factors that shape evaluation practices in these diverse contexts. It examines the colonial legacies that influenced governance structures and evaluation processes, the varied political landscapes ranging from nascent democracies to authoritarian regimes, and persistent economic and social challenges. It provides an introduction to the theoretical frameworks employed throughout the book, including political and technocratic perspectives on evaluation, and integrates future studies approaches to anticipate emerging trends.