This note aims at giving Country Offices a framework of reference for the planning, calculation, and understanding of targeting design and implementation errors.
Targeting errors occur when assistance fails to reach the intended beneficiaries, either by excluding eligible individuals or including ineligible ones. These errors stem from various causes, including flawed design, poor implementation, data limitations, and external interference. In humanitarian settings where WFP operates, challenges such as insecurity, limited access, and underfunding make perfect targeting unfeasible. Therefore, targeting systems should incorporate realistic error thresholds and prioritize transparency, adaptability, and fairness.
This guidance note supports programme, VAM, and M&E staff in identifying, classifying, and addressing targeting errors to enhance the efficiency, fairness, and accountability of assistance. It is designed to remain relevant across diverse, complex WFP operational environments, including those with limited data and access constraints.
It is accessible in two languages: