The document evaluates the Institutional-Centred Strategic Environmental Assessment (I-SEA) of the Dhaka Metropolitan Development Plan in Bangladesh. The I-SEA process, supported by the World Bank, aimed to integrate environmental and social considerations into urban planning in Dhaka and strengthen public participation. However, the evaluation found the I-SEA had a negligible contribution and impact due to poor project design, a lack of local ownership and follow through, and unrealistic expectations about fostering learning. Explanatory factors included a failure to internalize lessons and treat participation respectfully.