Localization and local leadership are integral to our humanitarian and development work, placing local actors at the helm of decision-making and coordination. However, the path to achieving this is often fraught with challenges such as capacity needs, funding constraints, power imbalances, and regulatory barriers.

Our esteemed panelists shared their experiences and insights on overcoming these challenges and advancing localization and local leadership in their respective contexts. The discussion also shed light on the evolving roles and responsibilities of International Non-Governmental Organizations (INGOs), donors, and local actors as they navigate the process of preparing, transitioning, and sustaining local prime readiness.

Panelists:

• Vana Handola, Ankawa Humanitarian Committee, Executive Director, Iraq
• Emin Rodríguez, Red ITC, General Director, Honduras
• Soha Menassa, Program Manager, CRS Iraq
• Indira Villegas, Head of Programs, CRS Honduras
• Moderator: Amanda Schweitzer, Technical Advisor for Humanitarian Response and Local Humanitarian Partnerships, CRS