Credible evaluations depend not only on sound methods but also on the ethical standards that guide their conduct.

The GEF IEO issues ethical guidelines to ensure that evaluations are carried out with independence, credibility, and respect for all stakeholders. The guidelines apply to staff and consultants working under the World Bank Code of Professional Ethics, while also setting standards specific to evaluation practice.

They emphasize impartiality and avoidance of conflicts of interest, transparency in sharing results, and protection of the rights and confidentiality of those affected by interventions.

By requiring evaluations to be rigorous, accurate, and conducted with responsible use of resources, the policy links ethical conduct to the quality and usefulness of findings. The guidelines are consistent with internationally recognized norms, including those of the United Nations Evaluation Group, and encourage collaboration with GEF Agencies to strengthen professional practice. Through embedding these principles in daily work, the Evaluation Office fosters trust in the integrity of its evaluations and reinforces their role in accountability, decision-making, and learning across the GEF partnership.