Partnerships
We believe that our vision can be achieved even more effectively by working with others.
Localisation at Plan International
Power in local hands
At Plan International, we’re putting localisation into practice — shifting power to communities, partnering with local organisations and driving sustainable change for girls.
We believe lasting change happens when communities lead. That’s why localisation is at the heart of our work. It means shifting power, resources and decision-making closer to the people we serve, and standing with local leaders, youth and grassroots organisations to drive progress for girls.
Localisation is a commitment to solidarity, equity and long-term impact. As part of our commitment to the Pledge for Change, we are reimagining what it means to be an international organisation: one that supports, not directs; one that listens, not imposes.
What localisation means to us
Localisation is about enabling communities to lead in ways that are most relevant and impactful for them. It means:
- Co-designing programmes with local organisations and youth networks.
- Transferring resources and decision-making to those closest to the impact.
- Building equitable partnerships based on trust, transparency and shared values.
- Adapting our role depending on the context; sometimes convening, sometimes supporting, always listening.
Localisation in action: Nepal and Zambia
Nepal
In Nepal, we’ve worked with communities since 1978. Over time, our approach has shifted from direct implementation to one rooted in partnership.
Today, we work with a wide range of local organisations and youth-led networks, co-designing programmes that reflect community priorities. A new partnership dashboard has increased transparency and accountability, while tailored support ensures that technical expertise is shared, not held. This bottom-up planning model ensures that solutions are locally owned and sustainable.
Zambia
In Zambia, we took part in a bold new initiative called the Reverse Call for Proposals. Instead of designing a project and seeking partners, we responded to a call issued by local civil society.
The Nyankanga Community Foundation defined its priorities and selected Plan International Zambia as a partner. Together, we developed an agreement and Plan provided funding to support community-led initiatives in child protection, sustainable agriculture and sexual and reproductive health. This flipped the traditional power dynamic, placing communities in charge and international organisations in a supporting role.
Our principles in action
Our localisation work is guided by key principles:
- Listening and amplifying local voices: Communities understand their context best. We put them first in all our programming and influencing work.
- Youth-centred approaches: Young people must lead in shaping solutions for long-term impact.
- Value-focused presence: We add value where it’s needed most, complementing local capabilities.
- Inclusive culture: We promote anti-racist, feminist and social justice practices, creating safe spaces for all.
Why it matters
Localisation is how we put our values into practice, honour our commitment to decolonisation and equity, and ensure that change is not only effective, but sustainable.
We are proud to stand in solidarity with local leaders, not in control. Because when communities lead, and girls are at the centre, the ripple effect is limitless: families grow stronger, communities rise and a future where we are all equal becomes possible.
Related pages
