From April to June 2026, the APF delivered its online Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability and Learning (MEAL) programme, with 58 participants from 18 NHRIs registering to strengthen their ability to understand, apply and embed MEAL approaches in their work. The programme has shown strong results, with participants reporting increased knowledge, confidence and clear pathways for application within their institutions.

Participants developed a stronger understanding of indicators, data collection and the importance of focusing on outcomes, alongside a greater appreciation of how accountability and learning contribute to institutional effectiveness. The programme also drew on practical resources, including the APF MEAL Guide for NHRIs, to support participants in applying concepts directly to their organisational contexts. Many identified concrete ways to integrate MEAL into their work, including improving monitoring systems, strengthening reporting, and applying MEAL to complaint handling, project management and strategic planning. A large majority indicated they feel ready to contribute to or lead improvements in MEAL practice within their organisations.

Case studies from NHRIs provided practical insights into implementing MEAL frameworks, highlighting both benefits and challenges. Gender considerations were also integrated throughout the programme, with participants reporting increased confidence in using gender-sensitive indicators and data to better understand diverse experiences and outcomes.

One participant reflected on the value of the programme, noting: “MEAL specifically the Accountability and Learning phases are new to me. I think this is something we could institutionalize especially now that our Strategic Plan has just been updated and there are new initiatives on the way. Institutionalizing MEAL will help us better measure our impact and create that conscious effort to always get feedback from the people we engage.”

Overall, the programme has strengthened operational capability across participating institutions, laying the foundation for more evidence-based, accountable and impactful human rights work.