This paper considers how developing countries are approaching the development of their domestic monitoring, reporting and verification (MRV) systems, in the context of climate policy. Case studies are presented from Brazil, Chile, China, Ethiopia, Ghana, India, Kenya, Thailand and South Africa. The analysis considers how the political context and domestic interests can inform the institutional arrangements around MRV systems. New available literature on domestic MRV in developing countries is presented as well as analysis based on the authors’ own research. Developing countries surveyed for this paper approach the development of their domestic MRV systems based on their political systems and existing institutional arrangements, as well as their intention of building an effective and efficient system that meets domestic interests.