This brief explores how locally led humanitarian response networks are reshaping the way aid is delivered—placing local and national actors at the center of decision-making, coordination, and response. Drawing on experiences from networks in Indonesia, Kenya, Myanmar, and Somalia, it highlights how these collaborative models enhance the speed, relevance, and inclusivity of humanitarian action.

It examines how diverse civil society organizations come together to share expertise, coordinate responses, and influence policy while navigating both collaboration and competition within resource-constrained environments. The brief also outlines key enablers of effective network functioning, including governance structures, flexible funding, capacity sharing, and strong local leadership.

This document was developed as part of the Humanitarian System Transformation through Local Humanitarian Leadership (HST-LHL) programme funded and supported by the Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs and facilitated by Oxfam in partnership with ODI Global, the Response Innovation Lab (RIL), and more than 30 local partners across 7 countries.