By Ashley 

In an increasingly interconnected world, civil society organisations (CSOs) play a vital role in addressing global challenges, from social justice issues to environmental sustainability. Collaborations between International Non-Governmental Organisations (INGOs) and Global South CSOs have become increasingly common, aiming to combine efforts and resources to effect positive change. However, the question of equity in these Partnerships remains a crucial concern.

A recent study conducted by Rights CoLab sheds light on the dynamics of North-South Civil Society Partnerships, highlighting both the potential and the pitfalls. The study collected perspectives from 609 CSOs across Asia, the Middle East, North Africa, South America, and Sub-Saharan Africa, revealing some striking insights.

First and foremost, the study shows that 92% of the Global South CSOs surveyed had collaborated with between 1-10 INGOs. This illustrates the prevalence of such partnerships and their importance in addressing pressing global issues. However, the study also uncovered a stark reality – despite collaboration, the relationship is not always mutually beneficial.

One of the most significant challenges highlighted in the study is the glaring imbalance in resources. Many INGOs are endowed with substantial financial and human resources, whereas Global South CSOs often operate with limited budgets and capacities. This imbalance can create a power dynamic that hinders the equitable nature of partnerships.

The study found that 84% of Global South CSOs acknowledged that they collaborate with INGOs. However, a concerning 85% of them revealed that these collaborations did not always lead to mutually beneficial outcomes. This discrepancy raises questions about the true nature of these partnerships and whether they are genuinely fostering equal and meaningful cooperation.

A significant aspect of achieving equitable North-South partnerships lies in adopting a bottom-up approach or treating each other as equal partners. The study found that 65% of Global South CSOs indeed engage with INGOs in this manner. However, they lamented that INGOs often fall short of comprehensively considering local realities. One major issue highlighted was the limited understanding of ‘local’ realities within the context of INGO projects. While INGOs might pay attention to the needs and circumstances of project beneficiaries, they often neglect to consider the institutional realities and broader contexts of their Global South partner organisations such as limited funding, capacity challenges, cultural and societal norms, and policy and regulatory environments, among others. The study revealed that INGOs frequently work under assumptions about what their “partner” has or needs.

The findings from the Rights CoLab study emphasise the urgent need to address the disparities and challenges in North-South civil society partnerships. While these collaborations hold immense potential for driving positive change, the lack of equitable treatment can hinder progress.

To foster truly equitable partnerships, INGOs must go beyond a project-centric focus and consider the broader context and institutional realities of their Global South partners. This includes providing support to enhance capacities, recognising other funding, and promoting sustainability and independence. Moreover, acknowledge the invaluable local knowledge and expertise that Global South CSOs bring to the table and use their talent to further projects and agendas.

As we navigate a rapidly changing global landscape, it is essential that we recognise the importance of equitable partnerships in achieving our shared goals. By bridging the resource gap and fostering genuine collaboration, we can harness the full potential of North-South civil society partnerships and work together to create a more just and sustainable world.

Includovate is a forward-thinking social enterprise dedicated to eradicating exclusion, inequality, and discrimination by embracing a decolonised approach to research. We believe in the power of equal partnerships, working collaboratively with marginalised and excluded communities to address their unique challenges. Our methodology blends hands-on action with systems thinking, fostering sustainable solutions that disrupt persistent cycles of inequality. By valuing equitable collaborations, we aim to create a more inclusive and just world for everyone.

About the Author:

Ashley Mutiso serves as the Chief of Staff and Impact and Partnerships Manager at Includovate. Hailing from Nairobi, Kenya, Ashley’s passion for inclusion and equity is evident in every endeavour. With extensive experience in the development sector, she brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep commitment to fostering positive change. At Includovate, Ashley plays a pivotal role in driving impactful initiatives and building meaningful partnerships, all while championing the values of equity and inclusion.