Fixing the money - Changing aid for real

Let’s talk about money.
In a world in upheaval, humanitarian action has become a microcosm of broader international global challenges – like the crisis of international law and principled policies, the strain on a rule-based order and the tension between solidarity and disruption and national interests. No aspect of aid mirrors these challenges, power imbalances and urgent reform needs more clearly than money and the way it flows in the aid sector.

The humanitarian world is facing its biggest funding challenge ever. Millions of people in need are losing lifesaving support, while international aid itself is experiencing its deepest crisis yet. After years of reform efforts, the aid sector still relies on an uncoordinated and rapidly shrinking patchwork of bilateral grants, philanthropic donations, and increasingly politicised engagements.

At CHA26, we aim to discuss what it would take to fix the money, and in doing so, profoundly reform international aid:

What role can new funding models play? Can pooled funds, mutual aid or the private sector be game changers?
How can financing enable rather than hinder local leadership?
What is the future role of international NGOs in an increasingly competitive environment?
And how can aid organisations navigate donor pressure to advance national interests while remaining focused on solidarity and responding to the greatest needs?

At CHA26, we will discuss these challenges, explore much-needed visionary reforms and examine what really works. Join us!