Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Entwicklung und Humanitäre Hilfe
Outside view (EN)
Efficiency in humanitarian assistance cannot be fully realized without empowering local leadership and communities on the ground. For far too long, the humanitarian sector has been bogged down by endless discussions and recommendations that have not been acted upon. This has led to inefficiency in our response to crises, and it’s time to change that.
Outside view by Jamie Munn
Over the past five plus years, hundreds of recommendations have called for more inclusive, locally-led humanitarian action, yet too often they’ve been left stagnant. Why did it take a political shock and awe of Trump’s administration to highlight the need for real reform in humanitarian assistance? The urgency has always been there, but the United Nations’ inertia in implementation remains an obstacle.
Bridging the gap between the Global South and Global North is not just a matter of policy – it is a matter of action. Local and national actors know their communities best, and empowering them is key to improving efficiency and ensuring that aid reaches those who need it most. Yet, despite these calls, power remains concentrated in the hands of global bureaucratic and lethargic actors, stalling meaningful change.
Now is the time for international NGOs to lean into in the importance of local leadership. The International Council for Voluntary Agencies (ICVA) has long advocated for a system where local and national NGOs are not seen as mere implementers but are integral players in decision-making processes. International NGOs must now lead in ensuring that local partners have a meaningful voice at the table – not as token representatives but as real decision-makers who shape the direction of aid.
The humanitarian sector must now walk the talk. We have the opportunity to push forward the reforms and recommendations of the past, moving beyond discussion to actual implementation. A true shift in how we work together, bringing local leadership into the forefront, increasing collaboration, and enhancing resource sharing, could be the key to turning efficiency from a buzzword into a reality.
The question we must all ask ourselves: How long can we afford to delay real change when lives are at stake?
Jamie Munn has two decades of experience in aid programming, strategic development, NGO coordination, and policy formation. With a diverse career across NGOs (and a brief tenure with the United Nations) at the head office, regional, and country levels, Jamie is adept at navigating the complexities of the humanitarian landscape. Throughout his career, Jamie has championed the pivotal role of NGOs in tackling global challenges. His leadership reflects a strong commitment to innovation, advocacy, and prioritizing transparency, accountability, and coordination.
A thought leader in the field, Jamie has published research on critical issues such as gendered identities in conflict zones, aid accountability and transparency, and post-conflict nationalism. These areas of focus have further established his expertise and influence in the humanitarian sector.
As Executive Director of ICVA, Jamie is positioned to lead the organisation with a forward-thinking approach and dedication to driving positive change. His vision and expertise are in alignment with ICVA’s mission, and he is committed to guiding the organization to new levels of success, ensuring a lasting impact on the global community.
Inspired by Tom Fletcher’s statement of commitment to the humanitarian community when he resumed his position as Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator (OCHA) in November 2024, this channel provides expert views and impulses that highlight the current importance of listening, efficiency, outspokenness, and innovation in humanitarian assistance.
