RAF At A Glance:
GEF's New Framework for Allocating Resources

What is the RAF?
In September 2005, the Global Environment Facility (GEF) Council adopted the Resource Allocation Framework (RAF), a new system for allocating GEF resources to recipient countries to increase the impact of GEF funding on the global environment. The RAF allocates resources to countries based on each country’s potential to generate global environmental benefits and its capacity, policies and practices to successfully implement GEF projects. The RAF builds on GEF’s existing country‐driven approach and partnerships with Implementing and Executing Agencies, and provides countries with increased predictability in the allocation of GEF funds.

When and for what focal areas is the RAF being implemented?

Implementation began in July 2006 and will apply to resources for financing biodiversity and climate change projects through the 4th replenishment of the GEF.

How are resources being allocated through the RAF?

The initial indicative allocations for each country during a replenishment period are publicly disclosed at the outset of each replenishment period. These allocations will be adjusted every two years to reflect changes in each country’s capacity and potential to deliver global environmental benefits. All eligible countries have access to resources for biodiversity and climate change to support enabling activities and projects in these areas. Each country will work with the GEF Implementing and Executing Agencies to develop project proposals to be financed from its indicative allocation.

What support is provided for countries to build their capacity to implement the RAF?

The RAF is intended to strengthen each country’s ability to ensure that GEF financing is based on country priorities and reflects guidance from the international environmental conventions for which the GEF serves as the financial mechanism. The Council has expanded support for GEF national focal point development and national capacity development so that countries can better address global environmental challenges and strengthen their capacities to work through the RAF approach. Two new initiatives – Country Support Program (CSP) for Focal Points and the GEF National Dialogue Initiative – provide opportunities for stakeholders to seek clarification and provide feedback about the RAF.

Are there systems in place like the RAF in other international institutions?

Yes. Resource allocation systems similar to the RAF are in place at other international financial institutions, such as the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA) and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).

Are any GEF resources available outside the RAF?

In addition to their allocations, countries can receive GEF financing for projects in the other focal areas (international waters, land degradation, ozone layer depletion, and persistent organic pollutants), cross‐cutting capacity building projects and the Small Grants Programme, which finances smaller projects that encourage wider participation by civil society, and through regional and global projects.

When will the RAF be evaluated?

An independent review of the operational experience with the RAF will be undertaken by the GEF Evaluation Office after two years of implementation. The RAF will also be evaluated at the end of GEF4 as part of an independent Overall Performance Study of the 4th replenishment period of the GEF.

How is additional information being provided?

A variety of channels, including country consultations, fact sheets and FAQs, have been used to inform stakeholders at the country, regional and global levels about the RAF.

General Contact information:

Information for Focal Points:

Additional Information