6. Integrated programming

This chapter presents evaluative evidence on integrated programming in the GEF,¹ highlighting its importance for driving transformational change and generating environmental benefits at scale. Drawing on earlier IEO reviews of integrated programming (GEF IEO 2018c, 2022d), as well as evaluations of the Sustainable Forest Management, Global Wildlife, Food Systems, and Sustainable Cities programs (GEF IEO 2022e, forthcoming-e, forthcoming-k, forthcoming-n), the chapter examines whether and how integrated programming delivers value beyond traditional stand‑alone projects. It focuses not only on operational, institutional, and policy‑level results, but also on the role of knowledge platforms and coordination mechanisms—a core feature of integrated programming—in catalyzing systemic shifts.

Integrated programming was designed to be additional to previous approaches, supporting systemwide solutions capable of tackling the complex drivers of environmental degradation and enabling transformational change. This chapter discusses the evolution of the portfolio of integrated programming as well as the relevance, governance, effectiveness, efficiency, inclusion, knowledge platforms, sustainability, and scaling of these programs. In covering these topics, the IEO has adopted a six‑domain framework (box 6.1) derived from its Evaluation of GEF Support for Transformational Change (GEF IEO 2018b). Together, these domains—(1) a systems-based vision for transformational change; (2) implementation quality and results; (3) ambition, innovation, and adaptation; (4) stakeholder inclusion; (5) sustainability and scale-up; and (6) knowledge sharing—frame how integrated programming can amplify the GEF’s ability to generate environmental benefits at scale while delivering socioeconomic co‑benefits and strengthening institutions for long‑term resilience. This chapter, following an overview of the GEF’s integrated programming portfolio’s evolution and governance, is organized roughly along these six domains.