On November 05, 2025, the Joint Learning Initiative on Faith and Local Communities (JLI) hosted a pivotal webinar titled “State of the Debate: Faith Actors’ Experiences of and Perspectives on Localization and Decolonization.” This event brought together a diverse group of researchers, practitioners, and faith-based organizations to explore the evolving discourse around localization and decolonization in development, humanitarian action, and peacebuilding.
Moderated by Dr. Amjad Saleem from the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent (IFRC), with opening remarks from Maurice Bloem, President/CEO of JLI, the session served as both a platform for sharing new research and a space for critical reflection on the roles and responsibilities of faith actors in shaping more equitable systems of aid and development.
The webinar was anchored in the findings of a new research report presented by Professor Emma Tomalin from the University of Leeds in the UK, Dr. Jennifer Eggert, Director of Policy and Research and Research Associate at SOAS, University of London and former JLI Senior Research Fellow and Programme Associate, and Alvin Andanje, JLI Regional Coordinator for Africa. This report, part of JLI’s broader State of the Evidence Navigator initiative, examined how faith actors understand and engage with the concepts of localization and decolonization. Drawing on a survey and interviews, the research revealed that while localization is a more familiar and widely used term among faith actors, often associated with community empowerment and local ownership, decolonization is perceived as a deeper, more transformative, and at times more sensitive agenda. The report emphasized that both concepts are essential and complementary, requiring intentional action, cultural sensitivity, and a commitment to shifting power dynamics.
The discussion highlighted the sensitive nature of the term “decolonization” within various organizations, with participants expressing surprise at the open discomfort and hesitancy surrounding its use, despite its perceived importance in practice. It has been noted that people felt safe enough to discuss their discomfort, highlighting the need for safe spaces to address such sensitive topics. Finally, it has also been made clear that there was a lack of significant regional differences in how people responded to the concept, with an emphasis on the need for sensitivity to how terms like decolonization are perceived by those they aim to help.
For more updates on JLI’s work on localization and decolonization, please consult the State of the Debate report on the JLI website. For further updates, visit the JLI website, subscribe to the newsletter, and follow JLI on social media.