In December 2024, the Forus Local Power Working Group came together to discuss strategies for equity and local leadership within global civil society. This initiative is part of Forus’ commitment to the “Shift the Power” movement to decentralise power and prioritise local and diverse actors in decision-making and development processes.

The Local Power Working Group is a dynamic collaboration among Forus members, addressing systemic inequities, community-driven solutions, and advocating for long-lasting systemic change. During the recent session, participants, including co-chairs Moses Isooba (UNNGOF, Uganda) and Mette Müller Kristensen (Global Fokus, Denmark), engaged in sketching out stretegies overcoming barriers such as funding imbalances, colonial legacies, and unequal partnerships

Systemic inequities persist, including the concentration of financial power in the Global North and insufficient resources for Southern civil society organisations. Forus as a global network will amplify local success stories, continue to influence donor practices, and develop tools to promote community-led development guided by its members and the Local Power working group.

Why Forus is Engaged in “Shift the Power”

Forus’ engagement in the Shift the Power movement originates from its mission to support civil society organisations to drive transformative change. Representing over 24,000 organisations through 72 national platforms and seven regional coalitions, Forus believes that sustainable solutions must emerge from local communities, recognising the importance of lived experiences and local expertise. Additionally, advocacy for equitable systems, new funding models for civil society to create an enabling environment, and community-led initiatives is central to Forus’ approach. Furthermore, local actors play a key role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDGs 16 and 17 which are central to Forus' advocacy approach. 

Call to Action

The Shift the Power movement blossoms on collective effort and shared vision. Forus encourages its members and partners to contribute their ideas, share examples of successful initiatives, and advocate for systemic reform challenging traditional hierarchies, and building a future where local and diverse actors lead the charge.

To learn more about the Forus Local Power Working Group or to contribute to this work, you can add your input to our form.