Grand Bargain Localization Commitments - Poland case study

Within the first month of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine on 24 February 2022, over two million refugees crossed into Poland. A year later, over a million refugees from Ukraine were registered for Temporary Protection in Poland. The numbers remain similar in 2024.

This report evaluates the involvement of international humanitarian actors in response to the challenges related to this forced migration movement, as compared against the Grand Bargain Localization Commitments. The report focuses on INGOs' and UN localization agendas, these organizations’ relationships with L/NNGOs, and the latter’s expectations and experiences related to building partnerships with international actors. The study does not cover questions related to localization involving local governments or public institutions. Key findings include the need for strengthening horizontal networks of cooperation; capacity sharing instead of capacity building; ensuring more equity in contracting; and benefits for international humanitarian actors in reconnecting with social movements which address questions at the heart of humanitarian ethics.

Through its recommendations, the report aims to support the collaborative efforts of international actors, such as INGOs and UN agencies, and their local partners in Poland, as well as to contribute to the global localization debate.