Local actors are critical both as first responders in a crisis and as providers of long-term support. Since the World Humanitarian Summit in 2016, work has continued through the Grand Bargain (GB) Localization Workstream and the IASC to deliver on commitments that reinforce the complementarity of international response with ongoing nationally and locally-led response at country level. Meanwhile, local actors have also continued to work on the advancement of localization, not only through the GB and IASC but also in their respective contexts and through other forums. 

In addition, the spread of COVID-19 in the last year has brought about additional recognition and insights into the critical role and advantages local and national actors can bring to humanitarian response. 

• The meaningful participation, representation and leadership by local and national actors in coordination mechanisms are critical as they provide an invaluable understanding of local challenges and solutions, are able to mobilize local networks and offer greater access to affected populations, hence contributing to a more effective, efficient and sustainable humanitarian response.
• There is a need to ensure local actors contribute to an overall picture of needs and the relationships between needs and the prioritization of the response and are involved in all stages of the Humanitarian Programme Cycle.
• CVA already offers an efficient and flexible modality that puts decision-making power on those who receive it. The COVID-19 response has brought a sharper focus on the added value of this approach but also increased recognition of the value of local actors. 
• In urban crises, the variety and density of local actors call for a more localized and contextualized humanitarian response. An increasing number of shelter and settlement agencies are adopting the settlements approach in urban programming which allows for more meaningful partnerships with local stakeholders at the settlement level.
• Finally, due diligence and compliance remain one of the main barriers to local-led humanitarian action and one that disproportionately affects local and national actors. 

The HNPW will provide an important and unique opportunity to bring together these different workstreams and to exchange experiences between practitioners and policymakers, focusing on six key areas:

• Best practices in promoting local leadership and localization – seen from the lens of local/national organisations, international organisations and donors.
• Strengthening participation representation and leadership of local and national actors in IASC humanitarian coordination mechanisms.
• Enhancing the participation of local actors in identifying needs and appropriate responses to crises.
• Improving localization through settlement-based interventions.
• Funding flows to local and national actors in programme delivery, particularly around cash and voucher assistance (CVA).
• Reducing barriers for local actors related to due diligence and compliance.