The discussion around the decolonization and localization of international cooperation (IZA) has often been conducted in recent years with a narrow focus on financial flows: localization of cooperation is considered achieved when more funds are directly allocated to local partners. However, this perspective overlooks central power issues that also exist in partnerships. For example, who defines the projects and programs, who is involved in relevant decision-making processes, and whose expertise is listened to. Allocating more funds directly to local actors is not sufficient if, at the same time, the strategic priorities are determined in Switzerland.
Local self-determination not only creates more impact but also strengthens the resilience of communities, especially against the backdrop of increasing global challenges. However, numerous hurdles are encountered in implementing projects and programs that align with the needs and challenges of local communities. Rigid requirements from donors can prevent local partners from receiving support that is flexible and efficient. Or fundraising and communication strategies might contradict the ethical principles of a partnership based on equality. Therefore, this manifesto serves both as a guideline for the working methods of Swiss NGOs and as a call to donors to structure their conditions in a way that enables locally anchored development cooperation.
At the same time, the manifesto is also a response to the strengthening of authoritarian forces that deliberately undermine human rights, restrict the scope for civil society action, and weaken multilateralism at its core. This makes international cooperation all the more important today, focusing on the world's most vulnerable. However, this can only be achieved if local actors, Swiss NGOs, governments, donors, the private sector, and academia see themselves as allies jointly contributing to the realization of human rights.
Many of the signing organizations – like FAIRMED – are in their Localization efforts already made significant progress. Nevertheless, there is a need for action for everyone. Because each organization faces its own challenges and accordingly develops different approaches to solutions. Now it is important to pool these experiences and move forward together.