What we do

In recent years, discussions around power shifts, localisation, and decolonisation in the development and humanitarian sectors have gained increasing attention. More actors are seeking to drive a paradigm shift, aiming to rebalance the historically unequal partnerships that have shaped these sectors. Efforts to transfer decision-making power from international civil society organisations (ICSOs) to the communities they serve has sparked transformative processes. These pave the way for more sustainable solutions that address power and resource imbalances between donors, ICSOs, and local communities. 

The International Civil Society Centre is committed to advancing this momentum and supporting international civil society organisations and their partners on the ambitious and vital journey towards a power shift. In 2022, the Centre expanded its thematic work on power shift and governance reform, integrating it into its 2022–2024 strategic cycle. The original Power Shift Lab series has evolved into the Accelerating Inclusive Power Shift project, designed to accelerate change and inspire ICSOs to reimagine their role within the global civil society sector. 

Through this project, the Centre contributes to building a global system for, development, human rights, and social justice work that is equitable, inclusive, and locally led. 

Power Shift Lab

Since 2018, the Centre’s Power Shift Labs have addressed the problem of power imbalances between North and South, but also between large and small, rich and resource-scarce entities of international civil society organisations (ICSOs). During the Labs, international civil society organisational leaders review the interaction between power dynamics, organisational intent and governance reform. Over the past seven years, a growing community explored the questions of how to overcome barriers and lead the necessary transformational power shifts in governance. Many participating organisations have advanced in their ambitions to put the people they serve at the centre of their governance. Most have identified paths to success but also encountered hurdles and blockages. Through this project, the Centre contributed to building a global system for, development, human rights, and social justice work that is equitable, inclusive, and locally led. Building on this project, under its futures work, the Centre supports international civil society organisations in implementing the transformational changes needed to become more agile, respond to emerging realities and carve future-fit roles for themselves. 

“The Centre’s Power Shift Lab in Senegal helped us as leaders within the civil society community to reflect on the intersection of governance transformation and shrinking civic space, delving into how such transformations challenge yet drive change within a complex organisation and evolving sector. Making space to reflect on our goals and hopes for long term power shifting allowed me to think about Plan’s role as a leader in supporting girls rights and girls in crisis. How might we consider more emphasis on governance actions that we can commit to today that can build momentum from within, ensure we approach a community–driven approach to changes in our governance, look to external partners and peers for support, and, as always, ensure our governance centres the representation and needs of young people. I also walked away with incredible learning from peer organisations – who had boldly embraced change in terms of operating models, global pay equity, decentralised headquarters, and pursuing outside culture checks – to help ensure accountability. Thank you for the space to think about ways to move forward, to do things differently, and to leave with even better relationships with fellow colleagues and champions.”
– Kathleen Sherwin, Chief Strategy & Engagement Officer (and External Representative) at Plan International