ACLED Impact Evaluation

Key Aid Consulting was commissioned by ACLED to conduct an independent impact evaluation of its programming under the Complex Risk Analytics Fund (CRAF’d) grant (2022–2025).The evaluation used a mixed-methods, theory-based approach, combining 71 key informant interviews, focus group discussions, and a user perception survey (174 respondents) to assess ACLED’s relevance, effectiveness, impact, coherence, and sustainability. Findings highlighted ACLED’s growing relevance to the humanitarian-development-peace (HDP) community, particularly in fragile and conflict-affected settings, where its real-time data, analytical tools, and training programs were found to strengthen crisis anticipation, response, and decision-making. The evaluation also identified challenges related to access restrictions, data literacy, and the need for clearer communication about ACLED’s evolving strategy and licensing model. Recommendations focused on improving transparency, refining impact measurement, and deepening engagement with local partners to ensure ACLED’s continued role as a trusted resource for evidence-based action.