Now that nearly two decades have passed since the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) was launched, there is good reason to ask questions about it:

• Is it relevant?
• Is it effective?
• What impact does it contribute to (both intended and unintended)?
• Can it be sustained?

The Global Independent Evaluation of the EITI is a wide-ranging project that seeks answers to these questions. In doing so, the Terms of Reference for the evaluation requires that it:

Be based on international best practice, provide credible and useful evidence to strengthen accountability for development results, and contribute to organisational learning.

Reflect the multistakeholder nature of the EITI through a participative approach that captures diverse stakeholder perspectives and expectations.

Focus on the relevance and effectiveness of the EITI in implementing countries, taking into account the diversity of national circumstances and EITI objectives.

Consider the overall effectiveness of the EITI at the global level based on the shared objectives expressed in the 2019 EITI Standard.

Produce a final report that presents a clear evaluation of the EITI’s effectiveness, with practical recommendations addressed to the EITI Board on opportunities to further strengthen the EITI.