localization labs
Localisation Labs
Overview
Since launching in 2023, NEAR’s Localisation Labs have been providing a framework, structure and space for our members to cultivate and experiment how to operationalise localisation.
The Labs empower local leaders and organisations to drive the localisation agenda in their own communities. They can do this by building connections with various stakeholders to advance shared goals and resources.
Interactive Network Map
Live Data
MENA
LAC
Asia-Pacific
Africa
National Lab
Regional Lab
Regional Partner
Bubble size = member count
372 members shown
Localisation Labs by Region
Our Localisation Labs provide space, structure, and solidarity for local leaders to experiment, collaborate, and operationalise localisation in their contexts.
Framework
Four Pillars of the Localisation Labs
The Localisation Labs focuses around four pillars that are sequential and mutually reinforcing:
1
Build & amplify a collective voice of diverse, local and national organisations
2
Building Bridges: Positioning local actors as primary decision-makers
3
Co-create, uplift, and amplify local solutions
4
Generate & Promote Learning to drive Change
Latest Lab Updates
- December 12, 2025
The Asia and the Pacific Local Leaders reaffirmed its collective commitment in driving a bold, politically grounded localisation agenda.
- December 2, 2025
CORE Fund strengthens resilience and preparedness amongst Makhmali and her community
- November 18, 2025
“We know that the people are in need:” Stopping at nothing to serve flood survivors in Afghanistan
- November 4, 2025
Change Fund Principles in Action: Locally led: The story of CDP Foundation and partners in the Philippines
Afghanistan Localisation Lab
Pakistan Localisation Lab
Philippines Localisation Lab
Indonesia Localisation Lab
Nepal Localisation Lab
localization labs
NEAR's Active Localisation Labs
Currently NEAR has two sub regional labs and seventeen national labs with a potential to expansion to many other countries across all regions:
Asia-pacific region
8 labs
- Asia-Pacific Local Leaders (Sub-regional lab)
- Afghanistan (National lab)
- Bangladesh Lab (National lab)
- Pakistan Lab (National lab)
- Philippines Lab (National lab)
- Indonesia (National lab)
- Nepal (National lab)
- Vanuatu Lab (National lab)
mena region
4 labs
- Syria Lab (National lab)
- Palestine Lab (National lab)
- Lebanon Lab (National lab)
- Yemen Lab (National lab)
lac region
5 labs
- Central America (Sub-regional lab)
- Colombia (National lab)
- Venezuela (National lab)
- Guatemala (National lab)
- El Salvador (National lab)
Africa Region
2 labs
- South Sudan (National lab)
- Ethiopia (National lab)
- Democratic Republic of Congo Lab
- Somalia Lab