Humanitarian needs are rising with climate crises, conflict and disease outbreaks, while funding is shrinking and becoming less predictable. Effective humanitarian action depends on local leadership. National Societies are rooted in their communities, powered by volunteers and trusted as auxiliaries to public authorities, which puts them in a unique position to lead. Realizing that potential takes sustained investment in their leadership, governance, systems, local presence and financial sustainability.

The Global Summit for Local Action brings together National Society leaders, IFRC, practitioners and partners to learn directly from National Societies: what is working, what has not, and what they have learned along the way. Over two days online, participants will share evidence and practical solutions across four priorities: financial sustainability, volunteering and youth development, leadership and governance, and management systems. It is a chance for anyone who funds, partners with or works alongside local humanitarian organizations to see why investing in them leads to more effective, longer-lasting help for communities.