Over the past decade, the Independent Authority for Fiscal Responsibility (AIReF) has become the go-to solution for rigorous, independent evaluation in Spain. Whenever public discussions demand thorough analysis, the AIReF is often suggested due to its sterling reputation. This highlights a positive narrative: Spain can indeed establish world-class institutions rapidly, breaking the stereotype of inefficiency. The secret lies in appointing effective leaders and providing necessary resources.

José Luis Escrivá was instrumental as AIReF's inaugural president, setting a strong foundation with his dedication, strategic vision, and character. His successor, Cristina Herrero, continues to excel, both substantively and communicatively, even with modest funding compared to similar fiscal bodies. In contrast, the Spanish Productivity Council, led by the capable Juan Francisco Jimeno, lacks the financial resources it desperately needs.

This scenario presents two challenges. Firstly, as the current president's term concludes in March, finding a successor who can sustain the AIReF's high standards will be difficult. Secondly, the Productivity Council requires a larger budget—a seven-figure sum—to effectively contribute to Spain's economic improvement.

Despite AIReF's success, it cannot and should not handle all evaluation tasks. The sheer scale of Spain's public sector, which allocates resources equating to 45% of the GDP, necessitates a broader approach. With countless municipalities, autonomous communities, and a variety of taxes and expenditures, a systemic evaluation overhaul is essential, permeating every phase of the budget cycle. Not only should general administrative bodies engage in evaluation, but also the Court of Auditors and regional oversight entities.

This comprehensive implementation demands enhanced training and resource allocation. Moving beyond legal compliance, sophisticated analytical tools must be employed, requiring new skill sets within current staff and a revamp of recruitment processes to align with modern public administration needs. Universities, with their abundant human capital, could facilitate faster integration of these evaluation processes.

Although this may seem daunting and financially burdensome, the long-term benefits outweigh the costs. For instance, halting a 100-million-euro project based on sound pre-analysis that predicts inefficiency could fund extensive evaluations. Moreover, reducing public perceptions of low-value government projects boosts taxpayer morale and willingness. Rigorous evaluation ensures public funds are managed with the same scrutiny as private capital.

While AIReF stands as a model of success, it cannot be the sole protagonist in the evaluation landscape. Broader systemic involvement is necessary for comprehensive public policy assessment.