Contribution short abstract:

This paper examines the complexities of “locally led” approaches, highlighting relationships with agendas like decolonisation, decentralisation, participation, supporting civil society, and changes to funding modalities. It argues that power lies in dynamic local systems, not individual actors.

Contribution long abstract:

This paper explores the complexities and ambiguities inherent in the concept of 'locally led' development approaches, examining how different agendas intersect with but do not fully encompass the varied uses of the term in theory and practice. Initiatives and discourses such as those on decolonisation, decentralisation, participation, supporting local civil society, and transferring funds to local actors highlight key aspects of these approaches, but may not encompass broader systems of power and decision-making. A recurring challenge is the ambiguity in defining 'local' actors, and the risks of privileging certain groups or organisations, notwithstanding their myriad motivations, knowledge, and interactions with broader systems.

The paper argues that power is not solely held by individual actors or organisations but exists within dynamic local systems involving state and non-state actors, across national, subnational, and community levels. Actor-focussed approaches to transferring funds and decision-making power risk overlooking this complexity, leading to unintended consequences such as gaming, NGOisation, or reinforcing existing power imbalances. The analysis highlights the need to consider local ecosystems of power holistically, recognising the roles and interactions of diverse 'local' actors, as well the context of their dynamic relationships with global systems and geopolitics.

Through distinctions between delivery and decision-making roles, as well as funding and service provision models, the paper illustrates the intricate networks of power and accountability within local systems. It emphasises that locally led development approaches could go beyond identifying ‘who is local’ to understanding and engaging with the complex systems in which ‘local actors’ operate.