Localization at the Nexus of Research and Evidence-Driven Programming for Community-Level Impact

Localization—which involves shifting resources and agency to local actors and respecting ways of being that enable locally-led development—has gained increasing prominence in International development policy and practice. A  focus on localization provides critical support for a  sustainable and equitable development landscape where communities are empowered to shape their futures. With the elimination of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the ongoing de-emphasis on U.S. involvement in global development, localization efforts need to increase. Despite wide recognition of its potential to drive impact, challenges remain in realizing the full potential of a localization agenda. 

This policy brief advocates for a greater emphasis on research and evidence-driven programming as crucial drivers of effective and locally-driven policy and practice in the field of development. Drawing upon a significant body of evidence and the findings of a scoping review, we call for a “real-world” orientation that acknowledges the complex, iterative, and nuanced nature of evidence-based decision-making.

A key recommendation emerging from this review is the critical need for research translation to be strategically integrated into localization policy and practices. This is essential to bridging the gap between research findings and practical application within local contexts to ensure that evidence effectively informs and enhances locally-led development initiatives.