localization labs
Colombia Localisation Lab
Overview
The Colombia LAB Initiative was established in April 2024 with the NEAR members in the country and implement the first-year plan. In January 2025 the Colombia network accepted the leadership of the National Reference Group, as a multi-stakeholder governance platform, led by the NEAR Colombia Network with support from Oxfam and other partners. Its purpose is to translate the Grand Pact’s global commitments into concrete actions in Colombia, strengthening the role of local, community, and national organizations in humanitarian efforts. The official launch was on July 2025 in Bogotá.
Since its creation, the GNR has become a milestone for Colombia and the region, by promoting a dialogue between local organizations, NGOs, the United Nations, donors, academia, and international networks, with the aim of strengthening the location and advancing the transformation of the humanitarian system.
At the end of 2025 the members increase to 17 in 8 territories.
The GNR Colombia reaffirms its commitment to the Great Pact 3.0 and to the post-2026 transition process. We reiterate that: Without direct and simplified financing, localization will remain a discourse and not a practice. NRGs must be consolidated as legitimate, stable, and funded platforms that support implementation beyond 2026. Colombia, with its diversity and organizational capacities, has a lot to contribute to the global humanitarian system: evidence, learning, and concrete proposals for a more equitable, inclusive, and locally led model.
Maritza Copete
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Movement Building
Movement Building
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Building Bridges
Bridges
The main effort in Colombia has been the construction and leadership of the National Reference Group, as it is a national humanitarian space. The official launch was developed, and a work plan has been developed, with the support of the co-leader, Oxfam Colombia.
A dialogue has begun with various donors and INGOs.
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Solutions
Solutions
Localization: processes of visibility and recognition of local capacities have been strengthened. Examples include experiences of common funds with access for local actors, the participation of organizations in coordination spaces such as EHP, ELC, and Clusters, and the role of platforms such as TOGETHER and NEAR. Some NGOs have begun to transfer assets and resources to local partners, showing that localization is possible.
Participation: the GNR has opened spaces for multi-actor dialogue, including ethnic, youth, and community organizations. However, it is required to move towards binding participation in decision-making.