Evidence-based evaluation in the EU counter-terrorism interventions: practitioners’ perspectives

Abstract This article is an analysis of the evaluation practices of the EU counter-terrorism initiatives. It is grounded in the findings of a practitioners’ workshop under the INDEED project1 that aimed at determining the Evidence-Based Evaluation (EBE) opportunities, limitations, and significance in improving the effectiveness of counter-terrorism initiatives. The workshop’s main objectives included (a) establishing a baseline of core needs, gaps, and potential solutions defined by practitioners; and (b) enabling the development of the next generation of EBE practices. The article suggests that an improved understanding of the value of EBE, reduction in complexity, effective communication, timely utilization, and inclusivity (research, policy, and practice communities through meaningful and sustainable relationships) improves strategic programme implementation. The article further suggests that this approach to evaluation positions evaluation practices more clearly as research-informed, community-oriented, and practitioner-centered.