Rethinking Localisation: Time to Shift Power and Resources

📰 Introduction

For years, localisation has been the buzzword in development circles. But as Dr. Yannick du Pont recently highlighted, it’s time we stop talking about localisation and actually do it. Beyond rhetoric, the development sector must now take practical steps to shift power, funding, and leadership to local actors.

🌐 From Principle to Practice

Localisation isn’t just a moral imperative—it’s a strategic necessity. Moving from tokenistic approaches to meaningful power-sharing requires:

• Transferring Resources: Local organisations must receive direct funding, not just sub-grants or technical support.

• Co-Designing Solutions: Programmes should be shaped with local partners, not just for them.

• Accountable Risk-Sharing: Donors and INGOs must rethink compliance mechanisms to support trust-based partnerships rather than punitive oversight.

🧭 What Needs to Change

Dr. Yannick calls out three urgent shifts:

1. Stop Using ‘Localisation’ as a Branding Tool: It’s not a competitive edge—it’s the new standard.

2. Embed it in Strategy and Procurement: Local actors should be involved in setting priorities and controlling budgets.

3. Let Go: International organisations must reduce control over implementation and accept new models of accountability.

📣 Final Thoughts

As global challenges become more complex, building authentic, equitable partnerships is the only path to lasting impact. Real localisation demands courage, clarity, and a willingness to rethink legacy structures.