How can health policies and programmes deliver meaningful, measurable results? That was the central question explored during a recent global panel discussion hosted by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Veredas Institute. The session marked the launch of WHO's new technical guide on developing evidence-informed theories of change (ToCs), a practical tool designed to help health actors better plan, monitor and evaluate their interventions.
Titled From Theory to Impact, the event brought together speakers from WHO, the Veredas Institute, Insper, and the South African government, who shared experiences of applying ToCs in diverse real-world settings, from health systems and social programmes to national planning and evaluation frameworks.
Opening the discussion, John Reeder, Director of WHO's Department of Research for Health, underscored the organization's commitment to evidence-informed policy. "As a science- and evidence-based organization, WHO is committed to strengthening how countries use evidence in policy decisions," he said. "This guide responds to real needs we've heard from our partners for a practical, transparent way to link actions with results."
A clear message came from Harsha Dayal, Director of Research in South Africa's Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation. Reflecting on government use of ToCs, she noted: "If you don't get the theory right upstream, you'll implement projects correctly, but for the wrong reasons." Her comments underscored the importance of early, strategic thinking to avoid policy failure down the line.
Ingrid Abdala of the Veredas Institute, who led the development of the guide, emphasized its user-friendly design. "It's built for people working in fast-paced environments," she said. "Whether you read the full guide or just focus on one part, it helps you act on what matters." She also highlighted the importance of involving a wide range of voices in shaping effective strategies.
Speaking from the perspective of implementation, Frederik Dejonghe of Insper described ToCs as essential tools for alignment and accountability. "They help people come together around realistic expectations," he explained. "By combining technical knowledge with local insights, ToCs support better decisions, especially in complex, resource-constrained environments."
Moderator Heléne Clark, founder of ActKnowledge, reflected on the broader potential of the guide. "In public health, we're dealing with complex systems and systemic change," she said. "This guide walks people through how that change actually happens and how to measure it."
Riccardo Polastro WHO's Chief Evaluation Officer added that ToCs shouldn't be seen as fixed plans, but as evolving frameworks. "This is not a blueprint. It's a living tool that must adapt to context, evidence and experience," he said.
Closing the event, WHO's Tanja Kuchenmüller highlighted the guide's potential to support better, more transparent policy. "Theories of change can anchor our collective efforts in outcomes and trigger real change in people's lives," she said. "We hope this is just the beginning."
Download the guide at who.int
Watch the recording of the event here .
