The Conflict Research and Evidence Lab (CREL) was launched in June 2023 and has since delivered more than three dozen research and evaluation assignments across over 50 countries. CREL focuses on generating rigorous, usable evidence in contexts where programmes operate under pressure and decisions carry significant consequences.

Much of this work takes place in politically sensitive and fragile settings, requiring careful navigation of access, ethics and risk. Assignments span areas such as governance, human rights, peacebuilding, humanitarian assistance, gender and emerging security threats, with a consistent emphasis on methodological rigour and practical relevance.

Alongside research and evaluation, CREL supports sensitive multi-stakeholder processes. This includes facilitating dialogue between aid agencies, donors and the Taliban de facto authorities in Afghanistan, helping to address operational constraints and strengthen coherence across the aid system.

CREL’s work is designed to support reflection, learning and dialogue among diverse stakeholder groups, particularly in complex and fast-changing environments. It combines research, evaluation and evidence synthesis with facilitated learning and dialogue processes, ensuring that findings are not only generated, but actively used to inform decision-making.

Evaluations draw on a range of methodological approaches, selected in response to context and purpose. These include theory-based and quasi-experimental designs, as well as realist evaluation and complexity-oriented methods such as outcome harvesting, allowing analysis to capture both intended and emergent outcomes.

A strong emphasis is placed on inclusive and contextually grounded engagement. Where appropriate, participatory, child- and trauma-sensitive approaches are applied, using methods such as drawing, storytelling and community mapping..

CREL’s work is grounded in intellectual rigour and independence. This includes making assumptions explicit, being transparent about methodological limitations, and challenging prevailing narratives where they are not supported by the evidence. All engagement is guided by strong context sensitivity and a clear commitment to do no harm.

As a women-led organisation, CREL supports the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security, and ensures that gender perspectives are meaningfully integrated across its work.