Envisioning an Alternative Ecosystem for Global Development and Humanitarianism

Envisioning an Alternative Ecosystem for Global Development and Humanitarianism presents findings from a series of consultations with grassroots civil society organizations (CSOs) across the Global South, responding to a concept paper that challenges conventional models of aid, development, and power. Authored by Themrise Khan and supported by the Global Fund for Community Foundations, the report explores four core concepts: reimagining development actors as holistic “State and Civil Society Entities” (SCSEs), positioning countries—rather than international actors—as the primary drivers of change, promoting regional cooperation, and shifting away from donor dependence through diversified funding. While respondents favored redefining development actors and expanding funding sources, skepticism remained around regionalism and the centrality of states given political and structural challenges. The report underscores the urgency of reducing Global North dependency, fostering domestic partnerships, and supporting community-led movements. It concludes by proposing practical actions for experimenting with these ideas, laying the groundwork for a more inclusive, equitable, and locally anchored global development ecosystem.