localization labs
Nepal Localisation Lab
Overview
Empowering local actors to be the primary decision-makers within Nepal’s humanitarian response ecosystem
The Nepal Localization Lab (NLL) is endorsed by the NEAR Network, aligning with NEAR Localisation Lab framework and NEAR’s strategic plan for 2024-2026. The Nepal Localisation Lab (NLL) aims to significantly bolster the capacity and influence of local civil society organizations (CSOs) in humanitarian and development action. Our overarching goal is to empower local actors to be the primary decision-makers within Nepal’s humanitarian response ecosystem, fostering inclusive, locally driven solutions that fully address community needs and leveraging local knowledge and expertise to create effective mechanisms for disaster preparedness and response. Further, NLL is a platform for all civil society organizations in Nepal to promote the localization agenda and to share experiences and lessons on aspects of localization.
The NLL was formally launched during the Nepal Humanitarian Conference and Asia Pacific Local Leaders (APLL) Summit on 18 August 2025 in Kathmandu, Nepal.
The NLL is composed with ten local organization of NEAR member in Nepal namely Development Project Services Center (DEPROSC), FAYA, Focus-Nepal, Goreto Gorkha, ICDC-Nepal, Lumanti Shelter Support Group, National Society for Earthquake Technology – Nepal (NSET), Environment and Rural Development Centre (ENRUDEC), Association for Rural Social Welfare (ARSOW) and PACE Nepal. In association with three key Nepali network organizations the Disaster Preparedness Network – Nepal (DPNet-Nepal), National Disaster Management Network of Nepal (DIMANN), and NGO Federation of Nepal.
Objective 1
Building & amplifying a collective voice.
Objective 2
Building Bridges & positioning local actors as primary decision-makers.
Objective 3
Co-create, uplift & amplify Solutions.
Objective 4
Generate & promote learning to drive systems change.
Over time, the Nepal Localization Lab has strengthened locally led humanitarian action through practical initiatives and evidence-based results. The successful establishment of the CORE Fund marks a shift toward demand-driven, locally managed financing, demonstrating that local actors can effectively manage the resources to address community priorities. Through the CORE Fund, prototype projects in Mahottari (fire preparedness) and Panchpokhari (landslide risk mitigation) showcased the effectiveness of locally led resilience approaches, reinforcing the leadership of local organizations in building community resilience.
In addition, through collective policy advocacy, the Kathmandu Covenant 2025 and a joint NGO-INGO declaration brought together over 100 organizations including Oxfam, Save the Children, and Plan International that committed to supporting rather than leading local actors. More than 200 additional pledges were later secured at RHPW 2025, further strengthening accountability and advancing the agenda of locally led humanitarian action.