On October 19, 2022, USAID released its Local Capacity Strengthening (LCS) Policy, which is revised from the December 2021 Local Capacity Development Policy draft. USAID updated the policy based on nearly 600 pages of public comments and consultation with local actors. According to USAID, the policy represents an “opportunity for the Agency to reexamine its capacity strengthening practices in light of the principles of locally-led development, as well as systems thinking and practice, to be a more equitable and effective partner.” It sets forth the Agency’s overall vision and seven principles for effective programming and equitable partnerships.
This brief was developed with input from Humentum’s Locally-Led Development Policy Working Group.