An Independent Evaluation of Research at the IMF

An Independent Evaluation of Research at the IMF

Presented by

Hali J. Edison 

Hali Edison is Lead Evaluator at the Independent Evaluation Office (IEO) of the IMF. Before joining the IEO, she worked at the IMF in the Research Department and Asia and Pacific Department. She holds a Ph.D. in economics from the London School of Economics. Ms. Edison has published widely on issues in international finance.

Abstract of the presentation

The IEO evaluation examines the relevance and utilization of IMF research to member country authorities, to IMF staff, and to other stakeholders. It also analyzes its technical quality and management. The evaluation found that the vast body of research produced by the IMF includes high-quality products, many of which are widely read in member countries and play a significant role in policy making; this was particularly true for the WEO and GFSR, but also for other publications. At the same time, the evaluation identified a number of shortcomings. Of particular importance, there was a widespread perception that Fund research was message-driven. In addition, the evaluation found that the relevance of research suffered from lack of consultation with authorities on research topics and insufficient country and institutional context; it also found insufficient quality control.
   

Introduction by
Maciej Sobolewski

CASE Vice President