Projects

AWRAD, in partnership with ALNAP, is conducting a mixed-methods study on how international funding can effectively support mutual aid initiatives in Gaza following 7 October 2023. The study examines ways to strengthen community solidarity networks and local committees while preserving community autonomy, dignity, and the "Do No Harm" principle.

AWRAD conducted a mixed-methods assessment of the impact of the recent conflict on Gaza's media and communications sector, covering TV and radio stations, news agencies, printing houses, and digital platforms. The study documented infrastructure damage, operational disruptions, and sector needs to develop an evidence-based recovery framework aimed at restoring media services, supporting media professionals, and strengthening the long-term resilience and independence of Gaza's media ecosystem.

AWRAD provides independent third-party monitoring and assessment services for UNFPA-supported humanitarian interventions across Gaza and the West Bank. Using mixed-methods approaches, AWRAD conducts post-distribution monitoring, facility verification, beneficiary feedback, and programmatic assessments covering sexual and reproductive health, maternal and newborn health, GBV, youth, and accountability services. The work generates evidence-based recommendations, analytical reports, and monitoring data to strengthen programme quality, accountability to affected populations, and adaptive humanitarian programming in complex emergency settings.

AWRAD, in partnership with CONSYSTRA, provides independent monitoring, evaluation, data collection, and third-party monitoring services across Syria under the U.S. Department of State-funded MENA MELS project. Using mixed-methods and both in-person and remote data collection, the assignment supports accountability and verifies humanitarian assistance delivery through real-time distribution monitoring, post-distribution monitoring, and site visits to health and infrastructure projects across multiple regions of Syria.

AWRAD is implementing a year-long monthly market monitoring and post-distribution monitoring (PDM) assignment in Gaza to inform cash-based and market-responsive programming in the post-ceasefire context. The work combines phone-based PDM with regular in-person market surveys and price tracking across all governorates.

AWRAD implements third-party monitoring for WHO’s Gaza operational response, providing independent oversight of health interventions, medical supplies, and service delivery. The assignment combines on-site and remote monitoring, beneficiary feedback, and regular reporting to support accountability and evidence-based decision-making.

AWRAD is implementing monthly light-touch monitoring to provide real-time insights on WASH conditions among displaced populations across all five governorates of Gaza. Using phone-based data collection, the assignment generates timely evidence on water access, sanitation, hygiene practices, and service gaps to support WASH Cluster coordination and response planning.

AWRAD conducted the mid-term evaluation of UNDP’s Investment Programme for Resilience (IPR), funded by KfW, assessing programme performance, strategic direction, and contributions to community resilience across the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and Gaza. Guided by OECD-DAC criteria, the evaluation used a mixed-methods approach to generate evidence for learning and strategic refinement.

AWRAD conducted a post-conflict damage and needs assessment of TVET and higher education institutions in Gaza, covering 26 institutions across 43 campuses. Using mixed methods, the study documented structural, functional, and digital damage and identified recovery and reconstruction priorities to support national planning and donor coordination.

AWRAD conducted the Palestine country study for ALNAP’s State of the Humanitarian System (SOHS) 6th edition, contributing qualitative evidence on humanitarian performance and accountability. The study informed ALNAP’s system-wide analysis through focus group discussions and key informant interviews across Gaza and the West Bank

AWRAD, in partnership with Ground Truth Solutions, conducted a mixed-methods perceptions study for UN Women to inform Gender in Humanitarian Action across Gaza and the West Bank. The research captured the priorities and lived experiences of crisis-affected women and men to support gender-responsive humanitarian programming.

This ongoing project supports a youth-led, locally grounded humanitarian research and learning approach through the Palestinian Humanitarian Observatory (PHO). It empowers young people in Gaza, Jenin, and Tulkarm to document lived experiences, produce ethical community-based knowledge, and contribute to alternative humanitarian thinking through participatory research and learning.

The Save What Remains of Gaza report (September 2025) documents how residents of the Gaza Strip are surviving amid war, displacement, and the collapse of humanitarian systems. Based on surveys, interviews, and humanitarian diaries, the study examines coping strategies, recovery priorities, and access to aid, highlighting severe deprivation and risks to human dignity.

AWRAD conducted a livelihoods and skills assessment among Palestinian refugees in West Bank camps, examining income sources, capacities, and local economic ecosystems. Using mixed methods, the study identified barriers, enablers, and lessons to inform future livelihoods and community development programming.

AWRAD delivers third-party monitoring services in support of MSI’s MENA MELS Activity, providing monitoring, evaluation, and learning support for USAID and BHA-funded humanitarian interventions in Gaza and the West Bank. The work includes market assessments, field hospital observations, and monitoring of non-food assistance across multiple sectors. Through these activities, AWRAD supports evidence-based decision-making to strengthen the effectiveness and accountability of the humanitarian response.

AWRAD provides multi-year technical and third-party monitoring support to Save the Children Palestine across the West Bank and Gaza. The engagement includes beneficiary identification and verification, data collection, post-distribution monitoring, market monitoring, grievance follow-up, and third-party monitoring of cash-for-work programs. Through this support, AWRAD strengthens accountability, data quality, and evidence-based decision-making for humanitarian programming.

AWRAD supported UNICEF with targeted beneficiary follow-up for non-redeemers under an ongoing cash transfer programme, using a rigorous CATI-based calling protocol. The assignment strengthened accountability and programme oversight through verified outreach and detailed call tracking.

AWRAD supports WHO and the World Bank through independent monitoring of health supply chains, focusing on verification, quality assurance, and timely delivery. The work combines site visits, visual documentation, and analytical reporting to strengthen transparency and operational learning.

AWRAD delivers large-scale third-party monitoring in support of WFP’s humanitarian response in Gaza, covering food assistance distributions across multiple modalities. The work includes high-frequency distribution monitoring, beneficiary interviews, food security and vulnerability assessments, and weekly market monitoring, with findings feeding into core WFP monitoring and IPC analysis.

AWRAD conducts comprehensive third-party monitoring of the Gaza Health Emergency Response Project implemented by UNICEF and WHO with World Bank support. The assignment covers all supported health facilities and provides timely, accurate data to inform project oversight and corrective action.

AWRAD conducted the final evaluation of the SDG-Climate Facility project across six countries, assessing performance, results, and sustainability using OECD-DAC criteria. The evaluation applied mixed methods to generate actionable lessons and recommendations.

AWRAD conducted the mid-term evaluation of the TARABOT multi-donor programme, assessing performance, results, and sustainability across vulnerable Palestinian communities. Guided by OECD-DAC criteria, the evaluation integrated gender and disability considerations to inform the programme’s next phase.

AWRAD conducted a gender assessment of the ICT sector in the West Bank to examine gaps between women’s high educational attainment and low workforce and leadership participation. The study analysed employment patterns, workplace barriers, and policy frameworks to inform inclusive firm-level practices and gender-responsive policy reform.

AWRAD and Ground Truth Solutions implemented the second round of this perceptions research across Gaza, expanding the sample to capture evolving needs, priorities, and community-led responses amid ongoing crisis conditions.

AWRAD conducted a large-scale perceptions survey in North West Syria on behalf of Ground Truth Solutions, examining accountability, community engagement, and feedback mechanisms within the humanitarian response. The assignment included survey design, testing, and face-to-face data collection across multiple locations.

AWRAD conducted a gender analysis for the Jordan refugee response, examining changes in gender roles, decision-making, and vulnerabilities among Syrian and non-Syrian refugee populations. The study assessed the impacts of economic crisis and reduced humanitarian assistance to inform more inclusive and gender-responsive programming.

AWRAD conducted a desk-based economic feasibility study assessing the integration of green energy solutions into industrial production and supply chains. The analysis quantified costs, efficiency gains, and long-term benefits to inform GIZ’s engagement with policymakers and businesses on green economy investments.

Designed a nationwide mixed-method assessment responding to the September 2024 escalation, covering displaced Lebanese, migrant, and refugee women across seven governorates. The design included a representative survey of 600 women, 15 KIIs, and visits to 40 collective shelters, examining food security, health, shelter, WASH, livelihoods, disability, household composition, and displacement-related vulnerability.

AWRAD conducts comprehensive third-party monitoring of humanitarian supplies and partner activities across Gaza, including health, WASH, fuel, and winterization assistance. The work covers shelters, water facilities, education and psychosocial activities, and supply chains, with a strong focus on service quality, protection standards, and accountability.

AWRAD completed the final evaluation of the Support to Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in East Jerusalem project, covering the period 2021–2023. Guided by OECD-DAC criteria, the evaluation assessed project performance, learning outcomes, and linkages between TVET institutions and the labour market across targeted schools in East Jerusalem.

AWRAD conducted a rapid gender assessment for UN Women following the February 2023 earthquake in northern and western Syria and southern Turkey. Using mixed methods, the assessment informed a gender-responsive humanitarian response by identifying protection risks, access gaps, and the specific needs of women, girls, and female-headed households.

AWRAD, in partnership with Ground Truth Solutions, conducted a rapid perceptions study following the onset of the Gaza war to amplify community voices in shaping the humanitarian response. Using household surveys and qualitative case studies, the research explored coping mechanisms, community resilience, needs, and perceptions of aid effectiveness.

AWRAD conducted a gender dynamics study for Mercy Corps in Northwest Syria, examining household and community-level changes in roles, decision-making, coping strategies, and access to rights. The research informed gender integration across food security, basic needs, social cohesion, and WASH programming.

AWRAD conducted a participatory, mixed-methods assessment of the GROW programme to evaluate its approach to women’s economic empowerment and support to women-led MSMEs. The study analysed results, gaps, and lessons across programme components to inform future WEE programming.

AWRAD completed a final evaluation for UNDP assessing the outcomes of the Hebron Courthouse project one year after handover. Guided by OECD-DAC criteria, the evaluation examined the project’s contribution to strengthening the rule of law and access to justice using mixed-methods data collection.

AWRAD evaluated WFP’s unconditional cash-based transfers to national social safety net beneficiaries in Palestine, assessing impacts on food security and social protection. The evaluation applied OECD-DAC criteria and used a mixed-methods, participatory approach to generate evidence for learning, accountability, and future programme design.

AWRAD supported Enabel in refining the project theory of change and conducted a baseline assessment on youth employment, decent work, income, and entrepreneurship in Palestine. The findings established reference values to inform programme implementation and results monitoring.

AWRAD conducted a joint evaluation commissioned by WFP, UNICEF, and ILO assessing the implementation and results of an SDG Fund–supported programme implemented between 2019 and 2022. The evaluation generated learning to inform future efforts to strengthen Palestine’s national social protection system and enhance accountability to stakeholders.

AWRAD conducted the endline and final evaluation of Save the Children’s She Succeeds programme, assessing performance against the programme’s Performance Measurement Framework. Guided by OECD-DAC criteria, the evaluation examined results related to gender and women’s entrepreneurship in Palestine to support learning and accountability.

AWRAD conducted an endline study with comparative analysis against baseline data to assess changes over the course of programme implementation. The assessment used mixed methods and original baseline tools to measure results among final programme beneficiaries.

AWRAD conducted the final evaluation of the Solsoc Programme in Palestine (2017–2021) as part of a multi-country evaluation. Using OECD-DAC criteria, the evaluation assessed results related to youth empowerment, labour rights, decent work, and environmental and gender equality outcomes.

AWRAD conducted a multi-country quantitative study across six MENA countries examining youth social norms and perceptions related to women’s dress codes. The research engaged young respondents through face-to-face interviews to inform regional gender and social norms analysis.

AWRAD developed a Country Gender Equality Profile (CGEP) to strengthen national evidence on progress toward gender equality and women’s empowerment. The profile and accompanying strategy document supported SDG monitoring, evidence-based advocacy, and gender-responsive programming for national institutions and UN partners.

AWRAD conducted third-party monitoring through a two-year longitudinal study, tracking programme indicators from baseline to final results. The assignment also included periodic monitoring and capacity development to strengthen M&E systems and beneficiary-level data collection.

AWRAD evaluated multiple projects under ACPP’s humanitarian strategy in Palestine and supported the design of a MEAL plan and needs assessment for the subsequent phase. In parallel, AWRAD led baseline and endline studies for an AECID-funded project delivering cash, voucher, and in-kind assistance in the West Bank.

AWRAD evaluated the Beyond the Barriers project using a quasi-experimental, case–control design to assess its impact and contribution to beneficiary outcomes. The evaluation examined effectiveness, efficiency, and sustainability based on survey data from beneficiaries and comparison groups.

AWRAD conducted a comparative analytical study in Jordan and Palestine examining unpaid caregiving through a political economy, gender, and power lens. The research assessed perceptions of care work, measured its economic value, and analysed its implications for national economies and gender inequality.

AWRAD conducted an independent, macro-level evaluation of the AMENCA 3 initiative to assess achievements, lessons learned, and strategic directions for future programming. The evaluation used mixed methods to generate actionable recommendations for consortium partners.

Mixed-methods policy research across Lebanon, Morocco, Tunisia, Jordan, and Palestine to inform legal reforms on paternity leave and men's participation in unpaid childcare. Localized tools per country; surveyed 1,154 institutional actors; published in Arabic, English, and French.

Under an EU-funded technical assistance project, AWRAD supported the Ministry of Social Development in strengthening monitoring and evaluation systems. The assignment focused on institutional data frameworks, IT-enabled MIS and reporting tools, planning and budgeting systems, quality improvement mechanisms, and evaluation commissioning processes.

AWRAD conducted baseline and endline studies for a multi-sector livelihoods programme in the Gaza Strip, covering fishers, farmers, herders, and well owners. The work also included a large-scale agriculture-based livelihoods survey examining income, food security, coping strategies, and related factors.

AWRAD evaluated WFP’s unconditional cash-based transfers to national social safety net beneficiaries in Palestine, assessing impacts on food security and social protection. The evaluation applied OECD-DAC criteria and used a mixed-methods, participatory approach to generate evidence for learning, accountability, and future programme design.

AWRAD conducted a research study for Oxfam assessing how the Palestinian National Cash Transfer Programme (PNCTP) responds to shifting vulnerabilities in the Gaza Strip. The study examined programme adaptability and provided recommendations to strengthen social protection and cash assistance in protracted crisis settings.

AWRAD conducted a research study for Oxfam assessing how the Palestinian National Cash Transfer Programme (PNCTP) responds to shifting vulnerabilities in the Gaza Strip. The study examined programme adaptability and provided recommendations to strengthen social protection and cash assistance in protracted crisis settings.

In 2020, AWRAD conducted a Participatory Gender Analysis for WFP Palestine to support gender-transformative programming. The study provided strategic and operational recommendations to strengthen programme design, delivery, and alignment with gender equality objectives for women and girls.

AWRAD conducted a strategic evaluation of the Joint Country Program (JCP) to assess its programmatic structure, partnerships, and added value. The evaluation generated recommendations to strengthen impact, effectiveness, and alignment with DCA–NCA’s global priorities.

AWRAD conducted a mid-term review assessing programme-level effectiveness, relevance, efficiency, and sustainability. The review examined cross-sectoral coordination, design coherence, and opportunities to strengthen impact, rationalize interventions, and expand the programme and its donor base.

AWRAD conducted baseline and endline studies for the Strengthening Sustainable Livelihoods in Rural Areas (LHP) programme, measuring changes in livelihoods, agricultural productivity, and economic prospects. The assessment applied mixed methods and a five-capital framework across rural communities in the West Bank.

AWRAD conducted a baseline assessment for PARC’s project to establish benchmarks for monitoring and evaluating Outcome 2. The study analysed socio-economic conditions at both beneficiary and community levels using mixed methods to inform future programme tracking.

Ahead of the Brussels III Conference (2019), AWRAD conducted qualitative research with children across four governorates in Syria to capture their challenges, recovery priorities, and future aspirations. The findings informed Save the Children’s advocacy and fundraising efforts by amplifying children’s voices in humanitarian decision-making.

AWRAD conducted a mixed-methods labour market study focusing on women’s participation and entrepreneurship in Palestine. The research analysed labour market constraints, entrepreneurial attitudes, and regulatory frameworks to inform policy and programme recommendations.

Conducted TPM, baseline studies, needs assessments, real-time monitoring, and final evaluations across Lebanon, Jordan, Syria, and Palestine. In Lebanon, AWRAD completed 1,540 interviews, 30 KIIs, 20 FGDs, and 15 monitoring visits covering education, health, MHPSS, protection, food security, and winterisation support for Syrian and Palestinian refugees, children, families, and vulnerable host communities.

Supported an evaluation of UNRWA’s transition from in-kind food and cash assistance to an e-card modality in refugee camps. The assignment included 720 respondent interviews, FGDs, and site visits examining assistance use, beneficiary preferences, transaction costs, gender, protection, and intra-household decision-making.

AWRAD partnered with MIFTAH to conduct a study of how the internal Palestinian division between Fatah and Hamas has impacted the lives of women in the West Bank and Gaza. This study focuses on the political, social, economic, cultural and psychological aspects of the division, with specific emphasis devoted to the defunct Palestinian legislature and its effect on women and women’s rights. To accomplish these goals, AWRAD designed a methodology including 50 in-depth interviews, four focus groups and 3 case studies, conducted across the West Bank and Gaza. The study produced an analytical report, assessing the individual impacts of the division, including their causes and effects.

AWRAD conducted a preliminary baseline study for PARC assessing the status and potential of the compost industry in Palestine. Using mixed methods, the study analysed current use, awareness, and opportunities for expansion to inform project design and future monitoring.

AWRAD conducted the final impact survey of the PNRMP to assess changes in agricultural production, incomes, and market access among rural households in Palestine. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study measured outcomes against baseline and midline data to evaluate project impact over time.

AWRAD was contracted by the US Consulate General in Jerusalem to serve as an expert gender consultant. AWRAD is responsible for increasing understanding of how gender issues among Palestinians relate to Mission strategic goals, improving capacity for addressing gaps in Palestinian women’s participation in public life, strengthening the Missions Women’s Empowerment Working Group (WEWG) and helping achieving the strategic goals of providing women with a platform for leadership. To accomplish these goals, AWRAD and its researchers have authored monthly briefing memos on gender-related trends in Palestine, visiting grantee organizations and providing updates on progress, holding training programs for consulate staff and holding training of trainers (ToT) programs. The project includes engagement with Consulate employees, women’s organization across Palestine, individual women serving in leadership roles and beneficiaries of grants by the Consulate.

AWRAD worked with the Ministry of Labor and Social Development in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to provide guidance and consulting experience in the development of indices and indicators related to social development. This consultancy was designed to inform the larger National Transformation Program recently launched. In the course of the project, AWRAD established indicators in the education, health, human development and poverty alleviation sectors. These were designed to benchmark and track efforts related to social equality, empowerment of marginalized groups, such as women and children, and improve quality of life. Currently, the indicators are being employed and tested within the Kingdom.

In March 2016, AWRAD conducted a national public opinion poll, specifically targeting Palestinian youth. The survey measured and evaluated youth knowledge of modern political history, levels of civic participation, willingness to participate in future elections and general perceptions of the current circumstances. A total of 1,200 youth (between ages 18 and 25) participated in the survey, drawn from all governorates in the West Bank, Gaza Strip and East Jerusalem. After analysis of the final results, AWRAD’s researchers authored a press release for online publication and dissemination among the media.

In June 2016, AWRAD conducted an online survey of Palestinian women. The survey was designed to measure perceptions related to women’s rights and opportunities in Palestine, women’s participation in social, economic and political activities and political preferences. A total of 365 “active” women participated in the survey, defined as those who worked in the public or private sector, are a member of a civil society organization (CSO), political party or union, are full-time students or are currently looking for work. At the conclusion of the research, AWRAD authored a press release for publication and also prepared a presentation for a roundtable discussion with leading figures in women’s empowerment.

AWRAD is currently partnered with IntraHealth to conduct an evaluation of the Palestinian Health Capacity Project (PHCP). The assessment is composed of two interlocking components: (1) a study of the bottlenecks in the healthcare sector that result in referrals and (2) a study of the appropriateness of referrals. AWRAD has designed a mixed-methods approach for both studies, drawing on in-depth interviews, database review, thematic studies and a review of strategies and project documents. Over the course of the project, AWRAD’s researchers conducted 85 interviews with leading figures in the healthcare sector, including governmental and non-governmental hospitals, the Service Purchase Department, members of Regional Referral Committees, ministries and practicing doctors. At the close of the project, AWRAD authored an analytical report, detailing the most significant findings, recommending cost containment strategies and determining a baseline finding regarding referral appropriateness.

AWRAD partnered with Save the Children to conduct an evaluation of the PCARL program, an initiative to increase community and partner capacity in supporting vulnerable populations and strengthening resilience in 12 communities in Area C and 6 communities in the ARA zones of Gaza.  The program included activities in protection, livelihoods support and access to basic services. AWRAD evaluated the impact of PCARL activities across six domains, relevance, effectiveness, efficiency, sustainability, impact and engagement with stakeholders, collecting data through a combination of survey questionnaires, interviews and focus groups. Following data collection and analysis, AWRAD authored a final report, assessing the performance of PCARL in building resilience across the six evaluation domains, offering conclusions and lessons learned and suggesting relevant, evidence-based recommendations.

AWRAD partnered with JICA to conduct a social survey of the Aqbat Jabr Refugee Camp. The goal of this survey was the development of a “core understanding,” which would help JICA in their implementation of a new technical cooperation project focused on improving public services and social cohesion. The project had four objectives: (1) examining the existing circumstances of the camp, (2) determining pressing and unmet needs, (3) identifying stakeholder groups and their circumstances and (4) identifying distinct actors and their respective roles. In pursuit of these goals, AWRAD designed a mixed-methods approach, employing 571 household survey questionnaires, 8 in-depth interviews, 3 focus group discussions, 2 stay-over visits and a comprehensive mapping. At the close of the project, AWRAD authored an analytical report, triangulating qualitative and quantitative data gleaned by the various survey tools, and providing an evidence-based foundation to guide JICA’s future interventions.

In August 2016, AWRAD conducted an online public opinion poll among experts on local governance issues. The goal of this survey was to assess expert opinions on the municipal elections, then scheduled for October, he prospects for candidates, the priorities of voters and the impact of elections on other political topics, such as reconciliation. Participants were drawn from journalists, community activists, businesspeople, university professors, medical doctor and engineers. The study was conducted from 12-18 August and included 205 experts. A press release was authored and published on AWRAD’s website, detailing the most pertinent findings and including the sample distribution and full results.

AWRAD was recently contracted to perform an analysis of the relationship between Palestinian women and local government by the PWWSD. Key issues focused on the role of women in politics, the performance of female elected officials, the relationship of women with government actors, the role of women’s movements and obstacles to greater empowerment. AWRAD designed a mixed-methods approach across the West Bank and Gaza, utilizing 14 in-depth interviews, 3 focus group discussions and 784 survey questionnaires. Data collection tools targeted prominent NGOs, CBOs and women’s organizations, government ministries, international actors (UNWOMEN), the MoLG and citizens. At the close of the project, AWRAD authored analytical report detailing the role of governmental bodies, women’s role as socio-political leaders, attitudes and behaviors of community members, the passage and application of laws and policies and recommendations to address all major findings.

In partnership with Ma’an Network and the What Works Consortium, AWRAD undertook a formative research project to assess violence against women and girls (VAWG) in Palestine and the role of the media in preventing such acts. The research was designed to support a larger intervention aiming to increase exposure of Palestinian audiences to relevant an realistic examples of the impact of VAWG, change social norms so that such behavior is less tolerated and reduce the number of women and girls exposed to violence. To accomplish this goal, AWRAD designed a research approach utilizing six focus group discussions and 20 in-depth interviews with males and females with experience of VAWG and experts in the field of social work and justice. The data collection focused on the context of VAWG in Palestine, experience and dynamics leading to different forms of VAWG, existing services and support mechanisms for survivors and the role of the media in reinforcing or dismantling a culture of VAWG. At the close of the assignment, AWRAD authored a final analytical report, which assessed the context of VAWG in Palestine, the perceptions, understanding and experiences of Palestinians, including those exposed to VAWG, and recommendations to improve media programming capable of eroding a culture that tolerates such acts. 

AWRAD was contracted by USAID to author the West Bank and Gaza section for the 2015 and 2016 CSOSI Reports. The CSOSI is designed to assess the sustainability of civil society across the MENA region, measuring sustainability across seven interlocking dimensions, such as legal environment and organizational capacity. To complete the assignment, AWRAD organized a series of focus group discussions among experts on civil society, who could offer perspective and information on the major developments that impacted civil society in 2015 and 2016. The inputs of these experts were supplemented with an extensive literature review, drawing on legal documents, executive orders, mappings and reports on the civil society sector and a host of other materials. After data collection, AWRAD authored the section on the West Bank and Gaza, published as part of the larger report on the MENA region.

AWRAD partnered with Nisaa FM to carry out a research assignment, assessing the popularity, impact of programming and sociopolitical perceptions of listeners. The project was completed through a mixed-methods approach, including a survey of 665 adult Palestinians across the West Bank and Gaza and four focus group discussions. Topics focused on awareness and listenership patterns, impact of programming on women, readership of the website and means of attracting new followers. The project concluded with the authoring of an analytical report, responsible for presenting the most pertinent findings and relevant recommendations based on the input of current and potential listeners.

AWRAD partnered with Chemonics to perform an assessment and evaluation of the National Referral System (NRS) and its ability to support survivors of gender-based violence (GBV). The project itself had four distinct components. The first was an assessment of the status, context and changes of GBV in the West Bank, including an evaluation of the Takamol project. The second was a mapping study of the major actors working in the field of GBV and the roles adopted and initiatives undertaken. The third was a comprehensive assessment of the NRS and development of a baseline. The final component was the composition of an intervention plan, including tools, methodologies and indicators to identify results of proposed interventions. To complete this multi-pronged assignment, AWRAD developed a mixed-methods approach utilizing in-depth interviews, focus groups, quantitative surveys, a mapping study, meetings with stakeholders and a literature review. Participants included institutions working in the sector of GBV, members of the NRS, women victims of violence, representatives of the government (MOSD, MOH, etc.), representatives of non-governmental organizations (MIFTAH, WCLAC, WATC, etc.), counselors, police and others. At the close of the assignment, AWRAD authored a final report, which served to identify achievements, gaps, challenges, opportunities for improvement, general recommendations and specific interventions to enhance the capacity of the NRS to protect and ensure justice for women victims of violence.

AWRAD partnered with IREX to perform a formative assessment of the Partnership with Youth (PWY) focus, with a specific focus devoted to measuring 21st competencies. This project built upon the baseline assessment, completed by AWRAD in 2014, and an internal midline assessment, completed in 2015. AWRAD developed a mixed-methods approach, targeting Palestinian youth and specific beneficiaries of PWY programming, particularly the offerings by Youth Development Resource Centers (YDRCs). The assignment included the distribution of 1,642 questionnaires, divided between a national survey and a beneficiary survey, and 14 focus group discussions with beneficiary youth, non-beneficiary youth and parents and community members. At the close of the assignment, AWRAD authored a final report, detailing major findings and recommendations for the future of the PWY program.

In March 2016, AWRAD conducted a national public opinion poll, specifically targeting Palestinian youth. This assignment constitutes the first half of the poll, with topics focusing on attitudes towards the peace process, negotiations and domestic matters. A total of 1,200 youth (between ages 18 and 25) participated in the survey, drawn from all governorates in the West Bank, Gaza Strip and East Jerusalem. After analysis of the final results, AWRAD’s researchers authored a press release for online publication and dissemination among the media.

In March 2016, AWRAD conducted a survey of Palestinians, measuring awareness and perceptions of the ongoing strike by Palestinian teachers. The survey targeted 500 respondents in the West Bank through face-to-face interviews and 200 opinion leaders through an online survey. Opinion leaders were defined as political party leaders, civil society leaders, governmental and private sector figures, journalists and media representatives, youth activists and professionals. AWRAD authored a final press release detailing the major findings. 

AWRAD partnered with TIPH to conduct a public opinion survey in the city of Hebron, assessing perceptions regarding the presence and operations of TIPH. The survey targeted a total of 600 residents of Hebron through face-to-face interviews, with residents of H2, the area under Israeli control, receiving the bulk of the sample. Indicators focused on awareness of TIPH’s presence, the impact of TIPH’s presence, goals and roles for TIPH to fulfill and general circumstances related to life in occupied Hebron. AWRAD authored a final report detailing the most significant findings and perceptions of Hebron residents and also conducted a one-day presentation for TIPH members in the city of Hebron to discuss the results and field questions. 

In June 2016, AWRAD conducted a public opinion survey among private sector figures on the state of the private sector. A total of 221 individuals were surveyed on topics such as the overall economic situation, the relationship between the PA and the private sector, the BDS movement and the Palestinian economy and opportunities for improvements. A press release was authored, detailing the results of the survey.  

AWRAD recently completed the final impact survey study of the PNRMP program designed to assess the current physical and socioeconomic status of targeted households, assess beneficiaries’ experiences and perceptions, document successes, challenges and lessons learned and develop recommendations for future interventions. The research team developed a mixed-methods approach, predicated on a quantitative impact survey, in-depth interviews, focus groups, database analysis and field visits to beneficiary communities. Furthermore, the methodology was specifically designed to employ a control group, allowing comparisons to be made with the beneficiary community at the close of the project. At the close of the assignment, AWRAD authored a Final Impact Survey Report, analyzing triangulated data and proposing recommendations and lessons learned for future projects. A final workshop was also convened with PNRMP staff to present pertinent conclusions.

AWRAD and the World Bank recently partnered to perform an evaluation of the MDTF. The Trust Fund was established as an instrument to pool funds and harmonize interventions aligned with the PA priorities for infrastructure in the water, urban development and energy sectors across the West Bank and Gaza. AWRAD designed its methodology to assess the overall relevance, effectiveness and impact of 3 years of the PID MDTF program activities  implementation, and to derive recommendations for adjustments which would enable the program to achieve its objectives moving forward and to realize its vision and strategic direction. This was completed through the conducting of 50 in-depth interviews with key stakeholders, including representatives of donor countries, implementing agencies, World Bank staff, and Task Team Leaders (TTLs) responsible for various projects and 12 field visits to project sites. AWRAD’s findings were summarized in a final analytical report, which also assessed how the PID MDTF structure and implementation tools coped with the rapid expansion of funds and donors following the 2014 war in Gaza.

AWRAD and the World Bank recently partnered to perform an evaluation of the MDTF. The Trust Fund was established as an instrument to pool funds and harmonize interventions aligned with the PA priorities for infrastructure in the water, urban development and energy sectors across the West Bank and Gaza. AWRAD designed its methodology to assess the overall relevance, effectiveness and impact of 3 years of the PID MDTF program activities  implementation, and to derive recommendations for adjustments which would enable the program to achieve its objectives moving forward and to realize its vision and strategic direction.  well as. This was completed through the conducting of 50 in-depth interviews with key stakeholders, including representatives of donor countries, implementing agencies, World Bank staff, and Task Team Leaders (TTLs) responsible for various projects and 12 field visits to project sites. AWRAD’s findings were summarized in a final analytical report, which also assessedhow the PID MDTF structure and implementation tools coped with the rapid expansion of funds and donors following the 2014 war in Gaza.

AWRAD is currently partnered with GOPA Worldwide Consultants and the Institute of Development Studies in London (IDS) to design and assist MoSA in its service delivery to vulnerable populations. The assessment entails a thorough monitoring and evaluation of MoSA service provision, in addition to non-governmental actors on the federal and local level, with the aim of determining comparative advantages. In pursuit of this goal, AWRAD and its partners have developed a series of indicators designed to evaluate impact, scope, sustainability, and other factors related to service delivery mechanisms. An essential part of this project is detailed knowledge of the concerns and circumstances of women, youth, and the disabled as it relates to service delivery. At the end of this project, AWRAD, with its partners, will present a detailed report, derived from its mixed-methods approach, which identifies comparative advantages and provides feasible recommendations for policy and programming reform.

This project represents a partnership between AWRAD and the Ministry of Social Development (previously Ministry of Social Affairs), to design and assist its service delivery to vulnerable populations. The assessment entails a thorough monitoring and evaluation of MoSD service provision, in addition to non-governmental actors at the federal and local level, with the aim of determining comparative advantages. In pursuit of this goal, AWRAD and its partners have developed a series of indicators designed to evaluate impact, scope, sustainability, and other factors related to service delivery mechanisms. An essential part of this project is detailed knowledge of the concerns and circumstances of women, youth, and the disabled as it relates to service delivery. In the course of this project, and subsidiary assignments, AWRAD has authored multiple analytical reports, developed action and sustainability plans for service provision to Palestinians with disabilities, established Joint Service Planning Groups (JPGs) in three governorates, conducted a mapping of service providers, conducted workshops on social service reform and performed a series of other activities.  

In 2015, AWRAD partnered with the EU to assist its work with the Ministry of Finance efforts to increase tax revenue collection and improve compliance. AWRAD developed a baseline survey to measure attitudes and levels of awareness related to taxes among Palestinian citizens. Indicators were developed to measure knowledge, contact with tax authorities, evaluation of the collection system, constraints and moral. These helped to identify the factors that influence citizens and businesses in the payment of taxes, the most challenging issues surrounding tax filing and recommendations to improve the system of revenue collection. AWRAD developed five complementary surveys, distributed among large taxpayers, the next generation of taxpayers (students), NGOs, the public and professionals. A total of 1,800 questionnaires were distributed among these five groups of respondents. AWRAD authored a final report, exploring the baseline data and providing recommendations for project implementation by the EU. Endline surveys will be conducted in 2017.

This assignment was a study designed to identify and highlight the specific barriers women entrepreneurs in Northern Palestine face in terms of accessing financial services, as well as how the 'Advancing Women Entrepreneurs’ Project could support financial institutions and create an enabling environment for women. AWRAD prepared a mixed-methods approach, including a quantitative survey of 146 women entrepreneurs who had received loans, as well as conducting 11 interviews with individuals from the financial sector and 3 focus groups, including 2 with women entrepreneurs. Together, the data collection tools measured the distinct legal, social, political and economic barriers that impede entrepreneurial work by women. A final report was authored, which detailed the most pertinent findings and offered recommendations to improve the Project.

AWRAD was recently contracted to conduct 24 focus groups in Morocco focusing on citizen perceptions and priorities related to political, economic and everyday issues. AWRAD will be responsible for developing all survey guidelines and training facilitators and transcribers for the focus groups. The groups themselves will be conducted in a mixture of urban and rural locales across three districts and target a variety of different ages. At the close of the project, AWRAD will submit transcriptions of each focus group, along with a complete dataset of all results. Most importantly, AWRAD will submit a final report documenting the most significant findings for IRI’s evaluation and incorporation into future work.

Compass is an initiative recently launched by AWRAD to provide tracking and analysis of survey data, trends and current events in Palestine and abroad. Compass is an effort to combine the data collected from AWRAD Polls with the analysis, perspective and academic background of AWRAD’s office experts and analysts. In effect, Compass focuses on the stories in the data that are not revealed on the surface, focusing on the deeper meaning of certain results, the circumstances that may have induced them and what these perceptions or responses could mean for future developments or initiatives. Examples of Compass topics include the peace process, empowerment of women and youth, prospects for Palestinian development and foreign relations.

AWRAD was contracted to conduct a final impact assessment of the Just Peace and Gender Equality Project co-implemented by WATC's and CARE International. The assignment was an assessment of the 2-year initiative across the West Bank and Gaza that focused on building the capacity of local grassroots activities to lead local initiatives and advocate for increased participation of women in the economic, social and political spheres. AWRAD’s evaluation targeted 30 communities involved in the project and the research team conducted 300 face-to-face interviews with marginalized women across each location. The research investigated five key thematic areas of interventions: socio-cultural gender norms, limited political participation of women, low public awareness limited civil society capacity, ineffective policy the effects of conflict occupation-related restrictions on movement and access. A final report was authored at the close of the research process, which included an analysis of the program in addition to lessons learned and recommendations. 

In December 2015, AWRAD conducted an online survey of Palestinian opinion leaders, a segment of society including political party leaders, civil society leaders, high-ranking government and private sector officials, journalists, youth activists, and professionals. The goal of the survey was to assess perceptions related to the wave of protests and demonstrations that were occurring across the West Bank and Gaza and other topics related to contemporary Palestinian issues. A total of 423 individuals participated in the online survey. AWRAD authored a press release, detailing the results of the survey and possible implications for the future. 

In December 2015, AWRAD conducted a specialized poll of youth, prompted by the outbreak of protests, demonstrations and violence in the previous months. This poll was specifically designed to measure youth perceptions towards the recent events and other general themes related to youth life in Palestine. A total of 505 Palestinian youth (ages 16-35) were targeted in an online survey. AWRAD authored a press release detailing the results and implications for youth prospects, their relationship with decision-makers, their goals and other relevant topics.

As a follow-up to AWRAD’s partnership with CARE International on the project: Skills Gaps and Development in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, the AWRAD team was tasked with writing four policy papers on the Palestinian labor market. These four documents were concise analyses of significant issues in the modern Palestinian labor market and focused on women’s role, promoting entrepreneurship, the relationship between the private and educational sector and other relevant matters. A central focus of each paper was the role that regulations, structures and laws played in shaping, influencing and expanding various economic sectors and how policies could be tailored to accommodate or adjust these laws. Microcredit and finance was also examined in the discussion of entrepreneurship with paper authors focusing on success stories and the role of lending organizations in promoting small business sustainability.

AWRAD completed a partnership with MDC to evaluate their Schools As Zones of Peace (SZoP) project. The goal of this project was to enhance resilience and provide safe and healthy educational environments for children and adolescents in some of the most marginalized and threatened Area C communities in the West Bank. AWRAD developed a mixed-methods approach, beginning with the analysis of a UN dataset, spanning multiple years, to determine which schools were most impacted by conflict and the various and multiple threats each endured. Simultaneously, the research team conducted a series of focus groups and interviews with students, parents, teachers, school employees and principals to identify the most pressing threats to a secure and health environment and collect recommendations for future planning. The AWRAD team authored a final, analytical report assessing the current circumstances faced by students and identified interventions and related actors to improve the educational environment. 

AWRAD recently partnered with the BTC to conduct a qualitative research project examining the transition of recent graduates into the Palestinian labor market. The aim of the research is to identify the impact of various labor market constraints on recruitment processes and the ability of young Palestinians to find work. As such, the research draws on respondents from the supply side, graduates and recent hires, and the demand side, HR managers and enterprise owners. The research itself is conducted through the Delphi method and will be defined by three stages of qualitative research: interviews, focus groups and workshops. After the three stages of data collection are completed, a final report will be authored with recommendations and identification of good practices. This research also supports a regional effort undertaken by the International Labor Organization to better understand labor market and recruitment practices. 

AWRAD conducted a multi-country study assessing the living conditions and political perceptions of Palestinian refugees across three host countries. Based on interviews with over 3,000 refugees, the research examined how displacement context and distance from conflict shape views on peace, conflict, and compromise, informing policy discussions with international stakeholders.

In cooperation with the PCBS, Human Dynamics, European Union Coordinating Office for Palestinian Police Support (EUPOL COPPS), UNDP, and the PCP, AWRAD analyzed the results of a public perception survey of PCP performance in Palestine. The development of the survey and the analysis of its results were highly informed by the extensive consultative process among all stakeholders. The survey included assessments of perceptions on: safety, general perceptions of PCP, PCP service delivery, contacts and complaints, gender and juvenile, service delivery development. The analytical report included specific recommendations for the PCP to improve certain areas of their work. AWRAD also prepared and conducted a two-day training for the police officers on the importance and use of public opinion surveys. One workshop targeted the senior officers and the other targeted the junior officers.

In coordination with a large number of national and regional organizations, AWRAD is carrying out in-depth research on the issues of expanded decentralization, regional development and elections. The research team is conducting research across the urban and rural scenes in three main regions: Marrakech-Tensift-Al Haouz; Souss-Massa-Draa; and the region surrounding Guelmim. To collect and analyze the data, AWRAD is organizing 54 focus groups and interviewing 1,200 Moroccans. The research targets all groups of society including civil society activists, political parties, youth groups, women groups, farmers, laborers, professionals and persons with disability. The research project covers a period of eight months (November 2014 – June 2015). Following the fieldwork, the results and recommendations will be presented in national and regional workshops with the participation of decision makers at all levels, including high-ranking politicians, leaders of political parties, parliamentarians, civil society leaders, journalists and regional leaders. The research is funded by the International Republican Institute (IRI) – Morocco

AWRAD is contracted to implement M&E surveys of the EPJP project, which aims to strengthen the Palestinian justice sector by providing improved services and training to key stakeholders. AWRAD has completed a baseline assessment, and will conduct a midline and end line assessment across four years to measure a variety of indicators relevant to justice sector performance. To do this, AWRAD has designed a mixed-methods approach, utilizing questionnaires, interviews and focus groups, that will inform EPJP planning and strategy.

AWRAD has been contracted by AMIDEAST to perform the baseline and impact assessment and end-of-project evaluation of the interventions developed to support the 2014-2017 School Support Program. AWRAD will be working across the 14 educational directorates to evaluate AMIDEAST’s educational interventions. The objectives of these assessments are fourfold: (1) support the provision of transparent and accountable reporting on program results and outcomes, (2) evaluate the extent of SSP’s effectiveness in meeting its objectives and goals, (3) elicit successes and lessons learned to inform the design of future projects, and (4) enable a better understanding of how gender, school location, grade level and rate of community poverty impact student achievement and overall program effectiveness. The Baseline survey was completed in January 2015.

AWRAD is currently engaged in a public opinion polling project across Egypt and Tunisia intended to explore and measure the social distribution and political significance of democratic attitudes and intolerance in the region and identify the main individual-level and contextual-level factors underlying the recent Arab revolutions and their aftermath. The poll targets 1,570 individuals in each country and is representative of all demographic factors. Questions measure socioeconomic demographics, participation in events surrounding the revolutions, attitudes towards different types of political rule and practices and change over time in personal security. Once the data has been collected and analyzed, analytical reports will be published in scholarly journals.

 “Assessment of Local Governance Relevant Academic Programs in Relation to the Demands of the Sector.”

As part of an evaluation that Edburgh Consultants was conducting for the EU and to support the evaluation team, AWRAD organized five focus groups for 10-15 participants at various venues and dates in Palestine. AWRAD arranged venues, stationary and refreshment and meeting dates, in addition to inviting participants from the different sectors in across civil society. 

For this assignment, AWRAD distributed 6,000 questionnaires across three countries (Saudi Arabia, Tunisia, Yemen). The aim of this project, funded by the National Endowment for Democracy (NED), was to provide an improved understanding of public perceptions towards women. The questionnaire contained both country-specific questions asking about women and country-specific media outlets, country-specific civil society organizations, and country-specific political parties and institutions. The questionnaire also asked a large set of unified questions to develop a regional understanding of public perceptions of women leaders and women leadership activity.

AWRAD was contracted to conduct 20 focus groups in partnership with BBCMA, measuring the perceptions of Palestinian viewers of two specific TV programs. AWRAD was responsible for assembling the office and field team as well as training for focus group facilitation. AWRAD’s field team conducted 20 focus groups across four locations in the West Bank and was responsible for translating and transmitting all data at the close of the project.

AWRAD conducted a specialized media monitoring study for Radio Nisaa FM and the German “Deutsche Welle Akademie”  Foundation, on gender. The study aimed to shed light on the reality of the Palestinian media with regard to gender issues from two perspectives; one about the perception and stereotypical portrayal of Palestinian women in the media, and another on the status of Palestinian female journalists (working conditions, job security and many other issues.)

AWRAD worked with PwY staff to develop three assessment indicators to establish the baseline for the program which targets youth between the ages of 14-29 to assess levels of 21st century competencies,  levels of participation and engagement,  and  gender  sensitivity.  AWRAD conducted a rapid assessment, a comprehensive and detailed literature review, and developed appropriate typology and definitions of these indicators and their unique circumstances within the Palestinian context. Additionally, AWRAD developed a framework to measure "21st century competencies" among youth in Palestine. AWRAD conducted a baseline, face-to-face survey of 2,900 Palestinian youth to measure these indicators. The results of both the quantitative and qualitative data collection were presented to leading IREX partners to ensure maximum comprehension and partner buy-in.  A series of recommendations and concerns to be addressed were prepared in a final report.

On the eve of Student Council elections at various Palestinian universities, AWRAD conducted a specialized opinion poll, focusing on: university student priorities, issues, election participation, Student Council performance and government performance. The poll was conducted in the aftermath of the recent reconciliation agreement, and two days before the conducting of the highly political and competitive student elections. This recent public opinion poll represents an additional endeavor to demonstrate the effectiveness of survey research in the political process. The questionnaire was fielded in April 2014 in three universities: Arab American University- Jenin (AAUJ), Birzeit University- Ramallah & Al Bireh (BZU), and Hebron University (HU). These selected universities recently conducted elections for their student councils. The elections were highly contested and all relevant political groups including Fatah, Hamas, and other independent and leftist groups participated in the process. A representative sample of 1,395 students was interviewed in the West Bank, 476 in AAUJ, 460 in BZU, and 459 in HU. The results were later weighted to reflect the size of the student population of each campus.

AWRAD was contracted by CARE International to perform an assessment of the skills gaps in Palestine as they relate to economic development. To successfully complete this assignment AWRAD developed a mixed-methods approach, drawing on questionnaires, focus groups and in-depth semi-structured interviews. Working from the perspective of a gap analysis between skills supply and skills demand, AWRAD  prepared survey tools for recent graduates, employers, educational institutions, with special attention for Technical and Vocational  Education and Training (TVET) centers and others. In addition to determining the skills gaps in Palestine, AWRAD compared and contrasted results with data from the Jordanian and Egyptian labor markets to determine Palestine’s comparative advantage. All of these data and issues where compiled and addressed in a final report detailing recommendations for programming and policy that can positively improve Palestinian laborers and the labor market. Two national-level workshops were organized and facilitated by AWRAD to disseminate the findings of the research in the West Bank and Gaza.

AWRAD partnered with Save the Children to carry out an evaluation of assignment of their five year $1.8 million EU-funded and EJ YMCA implemented rehabilitation program focusing on child ex-detainees. The central goal of this assignment was assessing the impact of the program on child ex-detainees, their families, and the broader communities, including educational institutions and decision-makers. The evaluation also assessed the program’s contributions to the monitoring and reporting system established under UN Resolution 1612 and the role this played in establishing an effective and efficient feedback loop. This research, and its results,  generated lessons learned from program design and implementation as well as providing actionable recommendations   for immediate and longer term changes to improve impact on the program beneficiaries. AWRAD adopted  a mixed-method approach to the evaluation, reviewing EJ YMCA’s detainee database, project records and reports and conducted  semi-structured interviews and focus groups with project stakeholders including direct beneficiaries, parents, program managers and staff, staff of educational  institutions (vocational and regular public schools) involved in the program and  PA institutions responsible for rehabilitation of ex-detainee children. Ethical considerations were integrated into all evaluation tools.

AWRAD has concluded the evaluation of the $16 million CRDP program managed by UNDP and funded by a group of European donors notably Sweden, Austria and the UK. The CRDP was designed to prevent the erosion of living conditions for Palestinians living in Area C and East Jerusalem, protect their land and property and prevent migration by enhancing their resilience. As part of the evaluation, AWRAD developed a comprehensive set of evaluation questions addressing relevance, performance management, management and coordination, impact, harmonization and alignment and future outlook.  AWRAD interviewed representative samples of all stakeholders including NGOs, CSOs, Palestinian government ministries and international donors   throughout the West Bank and East Jerusalem to assess and benchmark the achievements of the program to date. A mixed-methods approach was used incorporating qualitative and quantitative methods utilizing focus groups, in-depth semi-structured interviews and questionnaires as analytical tools.

 AWRAD was contracted by DAI/EGP to conduct a gender audit to promote organizational learning at the General Personnel Council (GPC) on how to effectively mainstream gender in its work. Simultaneously, AWRAD also worked with the GPC to plan and develop their Gender Strategy, a document on how to practically incorporate gender into its policies, programs, budget and structure.  This was accomplished through on-the job training.  AWRAD developed and conducted a gender sensitization training workshop for senior staff at the MoPWH to help guide their two-year plan of action, and two-day training for staff of the MTIT to raise awareness for the development of the Ministry’s first Gender Unit.  Working with the EGP team, AWRAD provided technical input and recommendations for the design of a Model Gender Unit, which could be introduced to partner institutions.

For this assignment AWRAD distributed 6,000 questionnaires and conducted eight focus groups across three countries in the Arab World: Libya, Tunisia and Yemen. The aim of this project, funded by the National Endowment for Democracy (NED), was to address prevailing social and political norms related to women’s involvement in a wide range of sectors. After completing fieldwork in all three Arab states, AWRAD’s office team developed three PowerPoint presentations and a 100-page report for AWLI. The report highlighted the critical findings on women’s involvement in the economic and political sectors, as well as social perceptions, attitudes and restrictions related to their involvement. Particularly significant to AWRAD’s proposal, the final analytical report and PowerPoint presentations were designed to help influence policy on women’s inclusion throughout the Arab World by providing data on priorities and programming needs.

This was a broad project aiming to empower youth across Palestine and connect them with their local communities. Youth from all 16 governorates in the West Bank and Gaza were recruited to participate in training programs offering instruction in survey research and polling techniques, as well as participate in activities to brainstorm for engagement initiatives. At the conclusion of the training, the youth served as field researchers in two public opinion polls in the West Bank and Gaza. They also helped organize a variety of activities for members of their community to brighten their lives and strengthen the social fabric. These activities included organizing Iftar dinners, visiting children in hospitals, organizing activities for the elderly and bringing dates and other sweets to Palestinians stuck at checkpoints.

AWRAD partnered with GOPA Worldwide Consultants and the Institute of Development Studies in London (IDS) to plan, implement and assist MoSA in its service delivery to vulnerable populations. The assessment entails a thorough monitoring and evaluation of MoSA service provision, in addition to non-governmental actors on the federal and local level, with the aim of determining comparative advantages. In pursuit of this goal, AWRAD and its partners have developed a series of indicators designed to evaluate impact, scope, sustainability, and other factors related to service delivery mechanisms. An essential part of this project is detailed knowledge of the concerns and circumstances of women, youth, and the disabled as it relates to service delivery. At the end of this project, AWRAD, with its partners, will present a detailed report, derived from its mixed-methods approach, which identifies comparative advantages and provides feasible recommendations for policy and programming reform. A variety of training assignments form will be carried out during the course of this project including team building and communication skills for the project teams.

AWRAD conducted an assessment of public sector services, in partnership with EGP and various Palestinian ministries. The assessment determined the factors which impact public perceptions of satisfaction of the quality of services delivered, and how these levels of satisfaction differ across different categories of service users. AWRAD identified service delivery improvement priorities across ministries and benchmarked current ministry performance against customer needs and expectations. To accomplish this goal, AWRAD prepared two surveys: a nationally representative public survey and another targeted at end users of government services which measured perceptions across 25 services across six ministries. This survey generated a Public Service Sector Satisfaction Index (PSSSI), developed from key indicators, that provides ministries and EGP with program baseline benchmarks. 

This assessment contributed to the understanding of civil society and media and identified the potential interventions needed to enhance the strength and sustainability of the Palestinian civil society and media sector. The assessment included an evaluation of the external environment and context in which civil society and media currently exist and function, challenges and opportunities in sector to enable potential strategies to be delineated and better aligned in support of a vibrant Palestinian civil society and independent media sector. The assessment also identified how significant issues, geographic areas, gender, and potential effectiveness of civil society and media institutions impact the sector. All key sector perspectives were captured through integrating a variety of data sources, and quantitative and qualitative research methods were employed to contextualize research findings. A total of 15 focus groups, 22 interviews and one survey targeting 553 CSOs, media outlets and key informants were carried out. The final report provided seven recommendations focused on areas for potential programmatic focus, suggestions for changes in internal USAID practice and an overall recommendation for all donors to help improve the environment for engagement of civil society with the public authorities.

The survey aimed to understand the use of radio as a media outlet, study the landscape of radio stations among Palestinians, assess the status of Nisaa FM (96 Nisaa FM), investigate the socio-economic profile of listeners, assess the needs and priorities of listeners concerning issues relevant to women and gender equality, and provide recommendations to improve the standing of Nisaa FM. AWRAD authored a report detailing the findings of a survey carried out in all West Bank and Gaza regions which constitutes a follow-up survey to a smaller scale survey that took place during December 2010. AWRAD collected quantitative data on the perceptions and attitudes of respondents covering 635 Palestinian adults (18 years or more) in both the West Bank and Gaza, providing overall analysis and other disaggregation by region, gender, age, and education.

 AWRAD collected baseline data on eleven performance indicators designed to measure progress towards the development of a fair and effective public prosecution system that protects the rights of Palestinians. Data was collected from seven stakeholder groups: the Palestinian public in the West Bank, judges, lawyers, prosecutors and employees of the Office of the Attorney General and Public Prosecution (OAG/PP), prosecution service users, international donors in the Palestinian legal system and non-state actors, including leaders of relevant NGOs, human rights organizations and academic and research institutions. Fieldwork was conducted simultaneously with all seven stakeholders using 35 qualified field researchers. In 2014, AWRAD was asked to conduct an end line survey to measure the changes and progress achieved as a result of programming in the previous year. The same stakeholder groups were targeted, using a similar survey to the baseline round, together with additional questions targeted at the various implemented interventions. AWRAD submitted a final report identifying major trends and changes in perceptions, as well as possible explanations for these changes to aid future policy and program development within the justice sector.

AWRAD conducted a national public opinion poll measuring the use and perceptions of family (Sharia’) law courts in Palestine. Questions measured respondents’ perceptions of the court and the law, as well as marriage and divorce, inheritance, maintenance and legal reform. Roughly 4,000 male and female respondents were targeted across the West Bank and Gaza.

This gender assessment focused on two distinct gender gaps within local governance. Firstly the limited representation of women as elected officials in local councils and staff within LGUs and the MoLG. Secondly, gender disparities in the provision of municipal services. AWRAD developed a mixed-methods methodology to assess the extent both of these gender gaps and provided recommendations for how LGI could increase both accessibility of and uptake by women of these services through on-going programming and implementation.

AWRAD completed the midterm review of the five year $100 million program to assess progress against program objectives and to make recommendations for ways to improve program performance for the next period of implementation. Five areas were examined including performance management, current levels of beneficiary satisfaction, project processes, program organizational structure and the outlook for the future. A mixed method approach was used throughout. Interviews and focus groups were conducted with program staff, beneficiaries, Ministry of Local Government representatives, and USAID program managers, AWRAD produced a series of midterm program recommendations aimed at improving overall program delivery to achieve program objectives by the end of the project. This review was conducted in parallel with a midline assessment of program progress against baseline data. Data from this assessment was incorporated into the midterm review.

AWRAD completed an EU-funded three-phase training of 40 young Libyan researchers. The training focused on qualitative and quantitative research methods, survey research, polling, interviewing skills, focus groups, and in-depth interviews. The first phase of the training focused on building the core and capacity of a research team. The second phase focused on focus groups, field research and organization, interviewing and communication skills and research under adversity. The third, and final, phase focused on qualitative and quantitative methods.

The AWRAD team assisted Benghazi University in developing its research capacity. AWRAD provided training in questionnaire development, research design, methodology development, sampling, data entry and analysis.  In addition, AWRAD trained the core team of researchers and field teams in the fields of survey research, data collection and analysis of its first survey on the Constitution.

This project was a training of 25 Palestinian journalists from the most prominent news outlets. AWRAD  provided  training for the two-day workshop on the science of polling and the role of media in covering polling results. Trainees included chief editors, editors, reporters, correspondents and columnists from Palestine TV, Voice of Palestine, Wafa, Ma’an, Wattan, Al Arabiya, Government Media Center (the Prime Minister’s office), a Fatah spokesperson and media officials, Reuters, the Media Officer at the Ministry of Finance, Al Quds Newspaper, Al Hayyat al Jadida Newspaper, Birzeit University’s Media Center, Nisaa’ FM and other radio stations. Eight of the participants were female and 13 were male. The training topics focused on the following: the history of polling in Palestine; the relation between polling, democracy and policy making; the science of polling; the most frequent errors committed by the media in presenting polling results; how the media covers polling; and some of the best ways of presenting polling results in written, spoken, visual and new media.

In partnership with the Palestinian Ministry of Transport (MoT) and Ministry of Interior (MoI) AWRAD completed the field work for a gender survey among the citizen customers of both ministries to analyze and understand gender dynamics and differences between the sexes in relation to access to and perception of key government services. The results of the surveys will be translated into strategies to be endorsed by both ministries.  AWRAD developed the gender strategy for the MoT through a highly participatory and consultative on-the-job training approach with the Ministry, developing a first comprehensive gender strategy for the Ministry using scientific data results and tools.

For this assignment, AWRAD completed a Common Country Analysis (CCA) in support of the UNDAF. AWRAD identified priority development themes, challenges and gaps within the oPt, as well as highlighting the comparative advantage of the UN Country Team (UNCT) in addressing significant issues. In pursuit of these goals, AWRAD’s researchers conducted dozens of in-depth interviews with PA and UN officials, civil society representatives and the private sector to determine outstanding development priorities and the potential role of partners in addressing existing gaps.

In November 2012, AWRAD carried out 10 focus groups in five municipalities in Libya to support IRI’s efforts to engage youth, CSOs, and other officials in more extensive dialogue during the process of political transition in Libya. Specifically, AWRAD conducted two sets of focus groups in five municipalities in Libya to probe the opinion of the Libyan adult constituency on public policy issues and the role of government in their daily life.