1.2 Introduction

Evaluation has always been a dynamic field that changes according to the big questions and challenges of the time. The current context calls for different evaluation practices that will directly address what matters the most in the 21st century.

Being an evaluator in the 21st century requires practicing evaluation differently from mainstream approaches that focus on interventions and treat the context secondarily. Because of the urgent need to restore or implement environmental, social, cultural, and political conditions that allow all species, including humans, to thrive, evaluators are now challenged to become moral agents in their practice. As this work involves a meaningful societal transformation, the current balance of power will inevitably be affected; some powerful people have a lot to lose and are leading a fierce resistance.

Therefore, for evaluators to have a positive influence they need to understand the socio-political context they are working within and the main determinants of planetary health. The following sections of this Chapter present the context’s characteristics and describe the dimensions of planetary health that matter the most for creating and sustaining the conditions for all species and human beings to thrive.