This project evaluates the performance and the impact of the "1,000 Micro-projects for socio-economic reintegration of ex-combatants, ex-militia members and youth at risk in Côte d'Ivoire" (from now on called the "1,000 Micro-projects" or "1,000 MP"), a project jointly run by the DDR Division of UNOCI and UNDP's Post-Crisis Unit in Côte d'Ivoire. The focus has been on its impact on beneficiaries, communities and peace and security in Côte d'Ivoire, as well as the efficiency and effectiveness of procedures and mechanisms employed to identify, select and implement micro projects. The evaluation also assessed the project's gender approach, and finally, sought to provide recommendations to guide the further implementation of micro projects.

The fieldwork in Côte d'Ivoire was conducted during two intensive weeks in October 2009. The study had a qualitative approach employing methods like document analyses, observation, informal conversations, group interviews, individual semi-structured interviews and workshop discussions. Field visits were made to a total of 49 micro projects and more than 150 beneficiaries of the "1,000 MP" were interviewed. Moreover, the evaluation team carried out informal conversations and semi-structured interviews with ONUCI and UNDP staff, PNRRC, PSCN, Cellule de 1000 Microprojets de la Présidence, leaders in the FAFN, local authorities and implementing agencies, as well as talks with representatives among international stakeholders such as the World Bank, European Union, GTZ, OIM, the Norwegian Royal Embassy, la Coopération Française, and Licorne. The methodological and ethical approach of the evaluation was approved by the Norwegian Social Science Data Services (NSD).

"1,000 MP" was an innovation in a DDR setting, a peaceful alternative to the use of force in order to control a dangerous situation of high tension in which many of the rebel soldiers were losing  the patience and seemed to be ready to use their arms again. The project was a very risky one, but it was carried out with success and a new period of fighting was avoided.