We discussed key challenges for local organizations and shared insights on the localization of humanitarian aid.
For our organization, this event was an opportunity to present the experience of establishing the Ukrainian NGOs Fund (UNF)—a consortium that unites Ukrainian organizations for joint management of humanitarian resources. UNF is localization in action: it enables a flexible response to community needs and fosters equitable partnerships where decisions are made locally.
Khrystyna Ivanchuk, Project Manager of the Ukrainian NGOs Fund, emphasized the importance of shared values and trust in partnerships between local organizations during panel discussions. She highlighted the challenges of implementing due diligence in Ukraine and called for international verification standards to be adapted to the realities of war, reducing bureaucratic burdens.
We appreciate the support and assistance of the international community, yet we remind everyone that context matters.
Local organizations must be at the center of decision-making processes, as they understand their communities’ needs best.
