This article addresses the overlooked barrier of accountability in the localization of international aid and development. It argues that the conventional monitoring and evaluation (M&E) practices, designed to satisfy donor accountability, hinder genuine localization in conflict-affected settings. The authors emphasize the need for a shift in knowledge creation within M&E processes, advocating for more inclusive and flexible structures that value and incorporate the insights and experiences of local communities. By examining the limitations of traditional M&E methodologies, the article proposes the adoption of feasible strategies that allow donors to report effectively to their constituents while enabling grantees to engage program participants and local communities more meaningfully. The concept of the Grounded Accountability Model (GAM) is introduced as a framework that co-constructs accountability between external groups supporting international efforts and the communities participating in aid projects. Drawing inspiration from activist roots in the peacebuilding field, the article explores how GAM can be operationalized at different organizational levels, showcasing its versatility and potential for broader implementation. The study presents two case studies, Asociación MINGA and Search for Common Ground, to illustrate the adaptability and application of GAM in diverse organizational structures and goals. By promoting a more nuanced understanding of projects supported by international aid, GAM offers a pathway to enhance localization, improve program effectiveness, and maintain accountability to both donors and local communities.

中文翻译：

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翻转衡量和评估中的权力动态：国际援助和扎根问责模型的潜力

本文探讨了国际援助和发展本地化过程中被忽视的问责障碍。它认为，旨在履行捐助者责任的传统监测和评估（M&E）做法阻碍了受冲突影响环境中的真正本地化。作者强调需要在监测和评估过程中转变知识创造，倡导更具包容性和灵活的结构，重视并融合当地社区的见解和经验。通过研究传统监测与评估方法的局限性，本文建议采用可行的策略，使捐助者能够向其选民有效地报告，同时使受赠者能够更有意义地参与项目参与者和当地社区。引入扎根问责模型（GAM）的概念作为一个框架，在支持国际努力的外部团体和参与援助项目的社区之间共同构建问责制。本文从和平建设领域的积极分子那里汲取灵感，探讨了如何在不同的组织层面实施 GAM，展示其多功能性和更广泛实施的潜力。该研究提出了两个案例研究：Asociación MINGA 和 Search for Common Ground，以说明 GAM 在不同组织结构和目标中的适应性和应用。通过促进对国际援助支持的项目有更细致的了解，GAM 提供了一条加强本地化、提高项目有效性并保持对捐助者和当地社区负责的途径。