Development experts and aid organizations are urging for increased direct and flexible funding to local and national non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to promote fair partnerships and equitable risk-sharing.
This call to action was made during the ToGether 2.0 regional advocacy seminar, hosted by Efforts for Rural Advancement (ERA) in Sylhet City. The seminar highlighted the challenging humanitarian landscape in Bangladesh, characterized by climate change impacts, recurrent natural calamities, and a significant population of displaced individuals. Local and national organizations often play a crucial role as first responders in emergency situations.
Despite the global commitment to localize humanitarian aid efforts, the access to direct funding for local organizations remains constrained. This limitation hinders the timely distribution of resources at the grassroots level and escalates administrative overheads, according to the speakers at the event.
During the panel discussions, participants put forward recommendations, such as enhancing direct and flexible funding mechanisms for local organizations, implementing multi-year funding schemes, establishing specific funds to bolster local initiatives, and formulating policies to ensure equitable risk-sharing among government entities, donors, and international organizations.
The seminar was graced by Khan Md. Reza-Un-Nabi, the divisional commissioner of Sylhet, as the chief guest. Distinguished speakers at the event included Kirti K from Malteser International, Buli Hagidok representing Food for the Hungry, Khalid Bin Masud from Unesco, Mohammad Shahzed of Plan International, Hasan Ahmed Chowdhury from the Foundation for Integrated Development Bangladesh (FIDB), and Md Matiur Rahman of Gonoshasthaya Kendra.
