LocalLink Hub podcast

In this episode of the LocalLink Hub podcast, Enikő Vass, the communications and content manager for Local Link Hub, talks about the significance of monitoring, evaluation, accountability, and learning (MEAL) in NGOs with Mariela Lazi, a Regional Quality and Accountability Advisor for Terre des hommes in Europe.
In this podcast about the basics of MEAL Mariela Lazi explains that MEAL stands for Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning, which evolved from the older term, M&E (Monitoring and Evaluation). MEAL includes accountability to donors and beneficiaries and emphasizes continuous learning to improve project outcomes.
Mariela discusses how, in the past, local NGOs often included monitoring and evaluation within project coordination tasks rather than having a separate unit. However, having a dedicated MEAL team is crucial to avoid bias and ensure objective evaluation of projects. She notes that the capacity to carry out MEAL tasks varies among local NGOs, and there is a growing need for strong capacity-building efforts.
The practical challenges of implementing MEAL
The conversation touches on the practical challenges of implementing MEAL. Projects must be designed with clear, measurable goals to facilitate effective monitoring and evaluation. The unpredictability of NGO work makes it even more essential to have well-defined plans and adaptable strategies.
Mariela also emphasizes the importance of independence and decision-making power for MEAL professionals within NGOs. They must be able to voice concerns and highlight issues objectively, without pressure from project implementers. This helps ensure the effectiveness and impact of projects.
Good practices in the sector include a growing desire for capacity development among local organizations and the establishment of dedicated MEAL units. Mariela advises NGOs to strengthen their MEAL structures and allow MEAL professionals to operate independently to maintain accountability and improve project outcomes.
In closing, Enikő Vass thanks Mariela Lazi for her insights and invites listeners to learn more about Terre des hommes initiatives and contact the podcast team with feedback or comments.

Figthting the effects of climate change with localisation
In this podcast episode, Enikő Vass interviews Tanvi Chattoraj and Paulami de Sarkar from Terre des hommes (Tdh) India about the Local Link Initiative, which officially launched in India on May 1st. 2024. They speak about the Sundarbans, a region severely affected by climate change, and emphasize empowering children and communities through participatory methodologies and safeguarding measures.

In our podcast, we discuss with Martin Gallard, localisation project manager at Tdh, what counts as indirect costs, the structural barriers around them. We suggests three models that could be applied to indirect costs - participatory grant making, pooled funds and the smart way of doing things. And finally, we spend some imaginary money granted to us by a fairy on indirect costs.