Reclaiming Power and Partnerships in the Wake of Donor Retraction through South–South Partnership

Abstract

The recent US foreign assistance cuts represent not only a funding crisis but also a reckoning for the humanitarian and development sectors. This moment must catalyse a shift towards South–South cooperation, partnership and funding ecosystems that are not beholden to the strategic fluctuations of traditional donors. Global North institutions continue to marginalise the knowledge, leadership and capacities of Global South communities; thus, aid needs to be reshaped as solidarity, not charity. This paradigm shift would place communities, civil society and local governments at the centre of decision-making, reclaiming power, dignity and autonomy by local and displaced actors. To make this transition effective, national and local communities and actors must invest in capacity strengthening, inclusive governance models and equitable partnerships. Embracing these practices will not only increase the sustainability of interventions but also uphold the dignity and leadership of those at the frontlines of crisis and humanitarian action. In addition, it is imperative to reform existing aid architectures to reflect new geopolitical and environmental realities.