Reframing Needs-Based Finance through Mutual Commitment and Dialogue

Presentation

The paper is part of a working paper series focusing on the Principles of Inclusive Finance, aimed at examining finance through the lenses of needs, dignity, and risk-sharing, to challenge conventional financial models and propose pathways toward a more just, accessible, and empowering financial architecture. This first paper aims to explore the concept of “Needs-based” as a “principle” in financing development and climate by deconstructing it further from a funder and recipient perspective, aimed at enhancing understanding to ensure there are practical actions towards the flow of funds and meeting of needs. However, it remains unclear whether “Needs-Based” finance is fully understood at national or international levels. The concept has evolved beyond simply identifying needs to focusing on the effectiveness and impact of climate finance rather than the amounts provided or mobilised.