Aid localisation in the humanitarian engineering sector: investigating influencing factors and changes

Abstract

The humanitarian engineering (HE) sector is undergoing significant restructuring as calls for aid localisation gain momentum. Aid localisation prioritises implementation of development assistance by local actors that strengthens and is responsive to local communities. While there have been many calls to localise aid, there is a need to capture the perspectives of HE practitioners on factors influencing aid localisation and how it may influence the sector. This research conducted and analysed interviews with 35 HE practitioners, who are alumni of US-based HE programs. We analysed responses through an institutional theory lens, finding that practitioners view aid localisation as a more effective and principled approach and that regulative measures have played a significant role in driving aid localisation within the sector. Further, we found that practitioners are observing sectoral changes, including increased funding allocation to local organisations, greater local actor involvement in decision-making, and evolving roles for international organisations as facilitators rather than direct aid implementers.

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