Authors: 

Dr. Md. Abdus Salam, GRMCS
Md Abdul Hamid, GRMCS
Syed Tanim Ahmed, GRMCS
Md. Mominur Rahman, GRMCS
Laboni Parvin, GRMCS

In collaboration with:  Save the Children Bangladesh, GRM

Publication date: May, 2024

Executive Summary:
The project, “Strengthening Child Protection Systems in Cox’s Bazar District,” was implemented in Cox’s Bazar Sadar, Eidgah and Ukhia Upazilas, Bangladesh. This region, significantly impacted by the Rohingya refugee crisis, faces severe child
protection challenges, including child labour, early marriage, and abuse. The project’s goal was to enhance child protection mechanisms both at the community and government levels, addressing immediate and systemic issues. Primary activities
included community engagement, capacity building for government staff, and advocacy for policy integration.

Study purpose and key questions.

The endline evaluation aimed to evaluate the project’s relevance, effectiveness, efficiency, and sustainability according to OECD/DAC criteria. Conducted in early 2024 by GRM Consulting Services Limited, the study targeted project stakeholders, including local communities and government entities, within Cox’s Bazar Sadar, Eidgah and Ukhia Upazilas.

Key Endline Questions:

• To what extent was the intervention adapted to the local child protection context?
• Are the project objectives being achieved, and what are the unintended outcomes?
• Were the project objectives achieved on time and within budget?
• Does the intervention support beneficial synergies with other community and government initiatives?
• What is the long-term sustainability of the project’s benefits?

Methodology
The study utilized a mixed-method approach, combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews and focus group discussions. The sample size included 456 direct beneficiaries and a comparable number (448) from the control group. Data collection methods ensured triangulation for robust findings. However, challenges such as geographical risks and sociocultural barriers were noted, potentially affecting the results.