About the Climate-SRHR MEL Framework
How this Framework Was Created
This framework was developed through an extensive research process which included:
Desk Review
We identified and reviewed 36 frameworks that addressed various aspects of climate resilience, gender, and health (focusing on sexual and reproductive health and rights). We considered indicator sets, theoretical and programmatic frameworks, and MEL guidance from donors, funders, and implementing organizations.
Interviews and Consultations with Implementing Organizations
We conducted 15 interviews with 26 participants from 14 countries. We also held 2 consultative sessions with 11 attendees from 9 countries. These sessions focused on understanding MEL challenges faced by organizations implementing SRHR programs in climate-affected regions, documenting existing tools and resources, and identifying key tools and resources needed to strengthen MEL.
Interviews with Funders and Donors
We conducted 6 interviews with 7 participants representing 6 different funding organizations and 4 different countries. These sessions focused on exploring the MEL challenges faced by funding organizations, prototyping a MEL framework, and ensuring alignment with existing frameworks and goals.
Prototyping and Piloting
To test the framework, we asked donors and implementers to review the contents for feasibility, fit for purpose, and ease of use, considering specific use case scenarios. We also used the framework to select indicators for common climate-SRHR programmatic approaches to ensure the framework was both comprehensive and adaptable.
Core Principles
The MEL approach in this guide is grounded in the following principles, which are essential for advancing effective, equitable, and responsive climate-SRHR action:
Intersectional
People experience climate and health risks differently based on intersecting factors like gender, age, socioeconomic status, geography, and others. We promote disaggregation data collection and analysis to ensure that interventions address the needs of those most affected.
Holistic approach
Climate-SRHR programs are diverse and complex. Our MEL approach supports flexible tools that can be adapted to a range of SRHR domains, climate risks, and implementation models.
Community-centered
Communities are the experts on their own experiences. MEL should elevate local knowledge, priorities, and definitions of climate resilience. We encourage participatory and collaborative MEL approaches that amplify local perspectives, reflect local realities, and support community-driven change.
Action-oriented
MEL should lead to meaningful change. We promote the development of MEL systems that support iterative learning, foster adaptation and innovation, and inform advocacy and sustainability.
Robust
Data must be credible and reliable to effectively inform decisions and drive accountability. We emphasize the use of high-quality indicators, sound methodologies, and consistent data collection standards to strengthen the rigor and usefulness of MEL systems.
