1/ Build a trusted partnership: Localisation is about managing a gradual power shift, which requires a common understanding of the responsibilities of each partner, open communication and mutual accountability.
2/ Make a long term commitment: Organisational strengthening takes time and cannot be accomplished by oneoff trainings. It requires a comprehensive capacity building approach, based on locally-led needs assessments, supporting
locally-led strategies, and offering mentoring, peer learning, and new opportunities for local organisations. This needs to be accompanied by the assurance of multi-year financing.
3/ Make localisation an integral part of programme design: Localisation should drive programming, rather than being included as a contingency plan. Enabling a locally-led response determines grant management, leadership roles, and what organisational transformation and culture changes are needed, for all parties. It is not a quick fix for a time of crisis.
4/ Share the risks: Localisation comes with even higher demands for accountability, transparency and due diligence placed on local organisations who are often unable to meet these higher standards. Intermediaries such as fund management facilities can shoulder some of the risk management for the donors, whilst giving national organisations the space they need to deliver flexible and adaptive response activities.
