Country Program Evaluation: Uruguay (2005-2009)

Date
Apr 2011
This evaluation examines the IDB's Country Program with Uruguay for the 2005-2009 period. The engagement of the IDB with Uruguay during this period was relevant as the Program's objectives were aligned with the government¿s priorities, particularly regarding fiscal sustainability and social safety nets. The Country Strategy called for the IDB¿s involvement in more areas than it ultimately engaged in, as the focus turned to challenges that emerged from the 2002 financial crisis, drawing attention away from challenges related to growth. To make the IDB's engagement with Uruguay more effective, the institution should: (i) consider knowledge as a strategic outcome of the Country Program by establishing an ongoing agenda to analyze where action is needed, how to act in those areas, and the goals sought; (ii) improve the evaluability and evaluation of the IDB's contribution; (iii) complement the Program's eminently sector-oriented approach (centered around financial resources) with a more coordinated approach that better accommodates the needs of Uruguay, which are increasingly programmatic and cross-cutting involving sector stakeholders, government levels, and the private sector; (iv) achieve greater programmatic focus on sustainable growth; and (v) address issues of equity and income inequality.