Making Partnerships Work in Afghanistan Guiding: Principles and Modalities for Equitable Collaboration - Advancing equitable, locally led humanitarian and development partnerships

Introduction:

The Afghanistan Localisation Technical Working Group (LTWG), founded by ACBAR in 2023 and comprised of a steering committee of 12 members and more than 40 NGO participants in regular forums, is actively advancing meaningful strategies toward localisation of humanitarian and development programs in the country. In support of these ongoing efforts, the LTWG sponsored and published two key, foundational documents to serve as an inflection point for further discussions among all stakeholders making commitment to realizing Grand Bargain commitments in Afghanistan. ACBAR is publishing these pieces to support the broader body of research and evidence on localisation principles, strategy and practice globally.

Afghanistan – Localisation Factsheet: Advancing locally led humanitarian action in Afghanistan.

This factsheet, developed by the LTWG with the support of ACBAR and the Afghanistan Context Support Mechanism (ACSM), provides an overview of localisation in Afghanistan. It highlights key actors, trends, and challenges while linking Afghan-led efforts to the broader global movement for more equitable, locally led aid systems. The Localisation Factsheet can be accessed through the following link: https://www.acbar.org/Document/5472434561.pdf

Making Partnerships Work in Afghanistan: Guiding Principles and Modalities for Equitable Collaboration.

This document, also produced by the LTWG with the support of ACBAR and the Afghanistan Context Support Mechanism (ACSM), is intended for anyone involved in establishing partnerships in Afghanistan. It provides practical guidance to strengthen equitable and effective partnerships in line with localisation commitments in Afghanistan. The document also speaks directly to international NGOs, UN agencies, and donors, who play a critical role in shaping the terms of partnership. These actors are encouraged to reflect on how their funding modalities, risk management approaches, and institutional behaviours enable or hinder equitable collaboration. Regular assessment of partnership practices, a commitment to mutual learning, and the creation of space for local leadership and co-creation are essential. The Principles of Partnership document can be accessed through the following link: https://www.acbar.org/Document/8616774656.pdf

For more information about the LTWG and the Localisation work of ACBAR, please contact ltwg@acbar.org.