Unboxing Localisation III - Chains Of Influence

On 13 October, the third session of the ‘Unboxing Localisation’ trajectory took place. The goal was to share concrete examples and innovations for implementing localisation, all in the light of the concept of the ‘Chains Of Influence’; a description of how different types of organisations within the development chain can leverage local leadership. Afterwards, three different levels (donor, intermediary, in-country partner) gave examples of localisation efforts, after which further exchanges continued in break-outs. Some key take-aways:

• The Chains of Influence Framework helps you to identify opportunities to influence  different layers of the sector to better enable local leadership. Look ‘up’ into your chain to advocate for the partner ‘down’ the chain.
• Innovative funding can help ownership. An example: a member-led fund in which grants are approved within 48 hours so immediate needs can be met effectively.
  • Local actors should of course be in the room when designing a program or policy, but also when funding structures and financial processes are developed.
• Donors can force change by setting specific requirements for funding (e.g. a consortium of international and in-country NGOs), or by lowering the administrative burden.
• Instead of a technocratic project approach, focus as international actors on partnerships and your in-country partner’s strengths (e.g. through a capacities self-assessment) - and subsequently how you as international partner can complement those to address needs.