The workshop on counterfactual impact evaluation (CIE) is a three-day professional learning event organised by CSIL. It focuses on ‘Counterfactual Thinking, Complex Realities: Practical Tools for Policy Impact Evaluation’ and is designed for policymakers, evaluation practitioners, researchers and doctoral students interested in improving how evidence can shape better public policy.  

The workshop will be held in-person from 11 to 13 May 2026 at the NH Milano Machiavelli Hotel in Milan, Italy. Over the course of the event, participants will explore core counterfactual impact evaluation methods, including matching, difference-in-differences, regression discontinuity design and synthetic control, through a blend of methodological sessions, hands-on group activities and a policy roundtable with experts from European and national institutions. No advanced econometric background is required, and sessions are designed to be accessible and practice oriented.  

The workshop includes practical instruction in applying evaluation techniques to interventions targeting individuals, firms or regions, and encourages participants to combine quantitative, qualitative and data-intensive approaches. A final policy roundtable will consider how findings from counterfactual impact evaluation can inform smarter policymaking and balance data quality with administrative feasibility.  

For more details like registration details, fees and programme updates, please visit the official CSIL’s workshop page.