Background: Although the understanding about the determinants of adolescent well-being outcomes in different areas is growing, little is known about how they interact. Similarly, while the need to incorporate a structural approach into programme design is gaining support, there is little guidance on systematic evidence-based approaches. A mapping of existing evidence is a key step in determining the effectiveness of existing programme approaches and identifying priorities for future research.

Objectives: To provide an overview of the existing evidence on the effectiveness of interventions (at the macro-, meso- and micro-levels) aimed at improving adolescent wellbeing in low- and middle-income countries. The focus is on key interventions and outcomes in the domains of protection and participation, and in the livelihoods domain excluding transferable skills and youth employment-related interventions and outcomes.

Methods: Building on the methodology pioneered by 3ie, the inclusion criteria for this evidence-gap map included ‘systematic reviews’ and ‘impact evaluations’ (RCTs and rigorous quasi-experimental designs). Its primary focus were studies with participants aged 10-19, conducted in low- and middle-income countries, published from year 2000 onwards. The search followed strict inclusion criteria for interventions and outcomes in the domains of participation, protection and livelihoods. Certain interventions and outcomes in these domains covered in other gap maps were excluded.

Results: The research is currently under way, but will be finalised in time for the Summit. We expect to not only outline the type and quality of research that exists in the three domains of adolescent well-being, but also to discuss methodological issues and new approaches adopted as part of the research process.