KUNO publications

Shifting Minds & Setting the Course Looking back and looking forward on the Dutch Relief Alliance localisation strategic priority

Localisation is an increasingly important topic for humanitarian actors and is viewed as a way to make humanitarian aid more effective. The Dutch Relief Alliance (DRA) included localisation as a key strategic priority in their 2018-2021 policy plan. They aim to ‘more effectively support and enable locally led responses’ by setting a target in funding to local actors, investing in capacity development, exploring partnerships and supporting the voice of local actors.

The publication

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About the publication

In 2021, KUNO published a study based on interviews conducted with 24 key stakeholders and previous localisation scans on the practical implications of the DRA localisation strategy. The study looks back on how the DRA-priority on localisation was received by stakeholders. After, it looks forward by discussing future localisation steps for the DRA. 

The study reveals that the localisation strategy of the DRA generally yielded positive results. For example, local partners mentioned that responses were more accurate because they had increased influence in decision making processes. Interviewees unanimously agreed that localisation should remain a DRA priority. However, there are still areas which need improvement. DRA structures and processes would need adjustment in order for further localisation progress to be made. 

In addition to exploring key areas such as quality of funding, capacity building of local partners, advocacy and visibility, and strategic partnerships, this study uncovers important insights and actionable recommendations. The lessons learned and recommendations are not only relevant for DRA organisations, but for all organisations that aim to do localisation successfully.

Authors

  • Peter Heintze, former coordinator of KUNO and current team leader of Safety of Journalists at Free Press Unlimited.
  • Marieke Gommans, anthropologist and project lead student development at Radboud University.
  • Iana Hilhorst, former intern at KUNO.