The adoption of the 2030 Development Agenda requires that policies, strategies and plans are evidence-based and contribute to the progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals.

In this regard, the production of use of sound and accurate data are of utmost importance. Capacity building and technical assistance in statistics directly contribute to these objectives. ICON has a long-standing experience in assisting countries and development partners to produce and use statistical data in line with international quality standards. Statistical data are essential to measure and monitor progress towards the SDG targets.

The evaluation of development strategies, plans, programmes and projects also ensures that these are programmed and implemented according to the OECD Development Assistance Committee criteria of relevance, effectiveness, efficiency, sustainability and impact. The lessons learned through evaluations are intended to help the development partners and countries to improve their development plans and informed evidence-based policy making.

ICON contributes to the knowledge base in topical social matters such as labour market performance and developments or education systems reforms thus taking advantage of its internal statistical and evaluation related know-how.