Developing an M&E system for a wicked problem

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Wicked problems are a challenge due to their dynamic and uncertain behaviour, inter-relationships with multiple systems and sub-systems, actors or non-human variables, and scale. Monitoring and evaluation (M&E) is a crucial element of any intervention seeking to contribute to positive change. This article explores a process used to design an M&E system that responds to a wicked problem. The authors argue that wicked problems require an M&E system design that is grounded in systemic thinking. Such an approach has been adopted to design an M&E system for counter-trafficking in persons by the Australian Government funded Australia and South East Asian Nations (ASEAN)-Australian Counter Trafficking program. This article describes the process used to develop the M&E system and the value of using systemic thinking to inform M&E system design for wicked problems and concludes with lessons learned.