IHR Monitoring & Evaluation Framework (IHR MEF)

IHR Monitoring & Evaluation Framework (IHR MEF)

• States Parties Self-Assessment Annual Reporting (SPAR): An annual self-report on 15 core IHR capacities using standardized indicators to monitor progress and guide investment. Joint
• External Evaluation (JEE): A voluntary peer-reviewed assessment by national and international experts covering 19 technical areas, offering independent validation and tailored recommendations.
• Action Reviews: Conducted during or after public health events to assess performance and extract lessons to strengthen preparedness and response systems.
• Simulation Exercises (SimEx): Scenario-based drills to test real-time coordination, response functions, and multisectoral readiness.

The IHR MEF is a structured approach to assess and strengthen countries’ capacities under the IHR, supporting gap analysis, progress tracking, and priority-setting for national planning. It promotes transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement through several tools, including:

For more information, click here.

Note: We’ll explore simulation exercises in more detail later in this module, including how they support functional performance and decision-making in crisis scenarios.

WHO Benchmarks

The WHO Benchmarks, developed by WHO and partners, is a technical tool that establishes a structured maturity model composed of 80 benchmarks organized across five capacity levels. It outlines suggested actions to guide countries in implementing the IHR and strengthening HEPPR capacities, as aligned with the IHR MEF. First introduced in 2019 and updated in 2023 to reflect lessons from COVID-19, the tool supports development, implementation, and tracking of national health security plans such as National Action Plans for Health Security (NAPHS).

Designed for use by countries, partners, and donors, the tool helps identify gaps, inform investment decisions and prioritize actions, monitor progress, and promote multisectoral coordination at all levels to achieve sustainable improvements in HEPPR. An online interactive module supports its application in strategic planning and prioritization processes.

Resource: WHO Benchmark Tool