Shifting power to NGOs in the Global South is easier said than done

News August 25, 2026 / By: Ann Danaiya Usher

Efforts in Sweden and Norway to “shift power” and funding to civil society organisations in the Global South are proving difficult to put into practice. Sida’s chaotic selection process drags into its third year, and Norad’s proposal to provide direct grants to organisations in developing countries has been put on hold by the Foreign Ministry in Oslo until 2028.

Charlotta-Norrby-1160x550-1-1-75-1920x1300-3598377887.jpg — Charlotta Norrby was Secretary General of Swedish Mission Council until April of this year. She describes the Swedish government’s handling of the reform of Sida’s civil society support as “horrendous.” (Photo by SMC)

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