Toward Decolonizing Evaluation: A Qualitative Framing Analysis of UNDP China

This essay examines how UNDP China evaluates its projects and explores how principles of decolonizing evaluation can improve its evaluation. UNDP mainly uses standardized frameworks such as results-based management, SMART indicators, and theory of change that emphasize measurable results and institutional alignment. However, these approaches could potentially overlook local knowledge, cultural context, and community participation. Through a qualitative framing analysis of eighteen UNDP China evaluation reports from 2022 to 2024, this study identifies five dominant evaluation frames. These frames show a strong focus on institutional structure, stakeholder coordination, and quantitative data. The findings suggest that current evaluation practices are limited in cultural responsiveness and vary in structure across reports. To improve future evaluations, UNDP China should incorporate more indigenous perspectives, promote local community engagement and ensure greater consistency in report structure and content.