Localization: A Necessity in Times of Uncertainty

In a world where humanitarian crises (resulting from nature or conflict) are increasingly complex and development funds are limited, "localization" has ceased to be a mere good intention and has become an imperative necessity for the future of international assistance and cooperation. Its guiding principle is simple yet profound: to make humanitarian action and development initiatives "as local and as intentional as possible".

This approach, which has been promoted for several years, has sought to redefine power dynamics by fostering more equitable partnerships, ensuring the effective inclusion of local actors in decision-making, investing in strengthening their institutional capacities, and, crucially, increasing their direct access to funding. The goal of localization has been to achieve a response of higher quality, impact, and sustainability, recognizing the unique strengths of those who are permanently on the ground.

The momentum for this systemic change was primarily initiated by local and national actors themselves (NGOs and Civil Society Organizations), who have for decades questioned the system's inequities and tirelessly advocated for change. These efforts, along with those of progressive actors within international NGOs, UN agencies, and donors, culminated in the 2016 Grand Bargain, where the international community formally committed to the localization agenda.

Despite these commitments, the strategy faces a financial paradox. The goal of channeling 25% of humanitarian funding directly to local actors is far from being met, with figures barely exceeding 3.1% in 2020. This lack of direct, quality funding represents one of the most significant practical barriers, as it limits the ability of local NGOs and CSOs to assume leadership and coordination roles. However, it is precisely the context of limited resources and a growing gap between humanitarian needs and available funds—exceeding $15 billion—that makes localization an urgent strategic necessity.

Despite the challenges, there are clear signs of progress. The presence of local actors in humanitarian coordination mechanisms has gradually increased in recent years. Increasingly, local organizations are holding seats on Humanitarian Country Teams (HCTs) and participating in the coordination of thematic groups, often serving as "pilot initiatives" that encourage others to follow their example.

In a global landscape of decreasing funds and overlapping crises, we might ask ourselves if we can afford to continue with this agenda. The real question is: can we afford not to?. Strengthening local capacity is not just a smart strategy; it is an imperative. Local actors not only ensure a faster, more culturally appropriate response with greater access to affected communities, but they are also more cost-effective.

In an environment of austerity, investing in those who are already on the front lines, who know the context, and who will remain long after international attention has faded, is not an expense—it is the smartest investment we can make. Funding, strengthening, and trusting local actors is investing in a future with more just, efficient, and sustainable responses.