The INDEED Evaluation Podcast

The interview focuses on the challenges and potential improvements in policy evaluation, particularly in the realm of preventing and countering violent extremism (P/CVE) and de-radicalization (DeRad). Featuring Rut Bermejo Casado, an associate professor at University Rey Juan Carlos in Madrid, the discussion delves into the crucial role of policy evaluation as the final stage of the policy cycle. 

Bermejo Casado, an expert in politics and public policies, highlights the necessity of various evaluation types, such as formative, ex-ante, and final evaluations, to ensure policies effectively address their goals. She identifies significant challenges in policy evaluation, including the lack of an evaluation culture, sensitivity of information, resource constraints, and insufficient stakeholder involvement. The conversation underscores the need for a cultural shift towards embracing evaluation, allocating more resources, and fostering collaboration among stakeholders. Recommendations for academics and policymakers emphasize the value of evaluation, the importance of external evaluations, and the need to promote a positive public perception of evaluation processes.

See also the video interview here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLG366E4Mgf7-3nOd-Dh0Bto1IZFiU6Ax6
For more information about the INDEED Project visit our website: www.indeedproject.eu

In this episode, Norbert Leonhardmair, a researcher and project manager at the Vienna Centre for Social Security (VICESSE), discusses the critical role of gender, ethics, and societal aspects in the evaluation of preventing and countering violent extremism (P/CVE) initiatives. The INDEED Project utilizes the Gender, Ethical, Legal, and Societal Aspects (GELSA) framework, inspired by the UN Human Rights Approach, to ensure that de-radicalization efforts are both theoretically and practically sound. 
Leonhardmair emphasizes the importance of addressing gender-specific aspects of radicalization, which have often been overlooked, particularly the unique needs of women and girls and the redefinition of masculinity. Additionally, the project highlights the necessity of engaging with vulnerable groups, urging practitioners to consider the diverse and contextual vulnerabilities individuals may face, thus bridging the gap between policy and practice. The project’s Evidence-Based Evaluation Model and Tool, which integrates GELSA, aims to enhance the efficacy and inclusiveness of P/CVE strategies.

See also the video interview here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLG366E4Mgf7-3nOd-Dh0Bto1IZFiU6Ax6
For more information about the INDEED Project visit our website: www.indeedproject.eu

In this Knowledge Series interview, Aileen Van Leewen, an M&E Officer at the International Centre for Counterterrorism (ICCT), introduces the fundamentals of Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) within the Counterterrorism and Preventing/Countering Violent Extremism (P/CVE) fields. She highlights the importance of building a culture of evaluation to gain insights, demonstrate effectiveness, ensure accountability, and empower stakeholders. 
Addressing common challenges and misconceptions, such as the difficulty of measuring non-events and the perceived sensitivity of evaluations, Aileen Van Leewen advocates for evidence-based practices to enhance organizational capacity and transparency. The establishment of ICCT’s M&E Center of Excellence aims to revolutionize evaluation practices, promote multi-stakeholder collaboration, and integrate M&E into all initiatives, fostering sustainable and effective counterterrorism efforts.

See also the video interview here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLG366E4Mgf7-3nOd-Dh0Bto1IZFiU6Ax6
For more information about the INDEED Project visit our website: www.indeedproject.eu

In this Knowledge Series Interview, Michael Q. Patton, a trailblazer in the evaluation field and Founder and CEO of Utilization-Focused Evaluation, discusses the critical importance of interpretive capacity over mere data accuracy. With over five decades of experience and several influential books to his name, Patton emphasizes that the ability to interpret environmental contexts is more crucial than just having accurate knowledge. He argues that high-performing organizations excel due to their capacity for meaningful interpretation, which aids in making sound judgments. 
Patton delves into evaluative thinking, highlighting its transdisciplinary nature, the pitfalls of bureaucratic compliance, and the necessity of timely decision-making. He advocates for a global, interconnected perspective on evaluation, stressing that deep thinking and a commitment to understanding context are essential. Evaluators, he contends, should act as facilitators of interpretation, fostering learning and informed decision-making beyond mere report generation.

See also the video interview here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLG366E4Mgf7-3nOd-Dh0Bto1IZFiU6Ax6
For more information about the INDEED Project visit our website: www.indeedproject.eu

In this episode, Stephan Klose, a Postdoctoral Researcher at the Brussels School of Governance, provided valuable insights into Evidence-Based Evaluation (EBE) within the fields of Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (P/CVE) and de-radicalization. With extensive academic background including a PhD from VUB and an MA from Lund University, Klose has dedicated the past two years to studying EBE policies and practices.

The interview delved into the nuanced understanding and implications of Evidence-Based (EB) concepts, highlighting their role as a cornerstone in contemporary policy frameworks. Central to EB practices are a meticulous review of existing evidence, informed professional judgment, and a conscientious consideration of community values and circumstances. Klose emphasized the reciprocal relationship between evaluation processes and EB practices, advocating for rigorous research methodologies to underpin effective policy decisions. Recognizing the challenges of accessibility and stakeholder engagement, particularly in sourcing and utilizing evidence effectively, Klose underscored the need for comprehensive, inclusive approaches to enhance the impact of P/CVE initiatives worldwide.

See also the video interview here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLG366E4Mgf7-3nOd-Dh0Bto1IZFiU6Ax6
For more information about the INDEED Project visit our website: www.indeedproject.eu