Start Network Assembly 2021: Recovering costs more equitably an important step in rebalancing power

Takeaways from the 2021 Start Network Assembly Learn session: Recovering costs more equitably: an important step in rebalancing power This session aimed to raise awareness on why a more equitable Indirect Cost Recovery (ICR) across the humanitarian sector is a concrete and tangible way to make progress towards locally led action. Panellists from the session include Fhakrul Islam and Sajid Raihan from Start Fund Bangladesh, Yeakub Hossain from SEEP, and Dulon Gomes from World Vision Bangladesh. The session was facilitated by Myriam Castaneda Solares.

Calls to action from the session:

1. Treat all implementing partners the same

If you share your ICR with an INGO implementing partner you should also share with local and national NGOs, as it can be a tool for local organisations sustainability and strengthening.

2. Start at the country level

You don’t have to wait for a global decision at HQ, it is possible to change what you do in your country office.

3. Gather the evidence

The more evidence you have for the positive changes ICR sharing enables, the more fuel you have to make that change.

4. Don’t tie ICR to conditions

Organisational strengthening can be used as an example of positive change, but local NGOs should be free to decide what they spend this on, they have the agency and capacity to do so.

5. Advocate for change

Whether you are a local, national or international NGO, if you get ICR from one donor, advocate for change to other donors, country offices and to implementing partners. We all have a role to play.