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Remote Job: CIVICUS is Hiring for a Researcher for Project on Artivism

Eugen4 weeks ago

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Join CIVICUS in Exploring the Intersection of Art and Activism

CIVICUS, a global alliance of civil society organizations and activists, is seeking consultancy support for an innovative research project focused on artivism—the harmonious blend of artistic expression and activist movements. This project aims to delve into how civil society utilizes art and culture for social change, exploring the myriad ways creativity plays a role in advocating for civic freedoms, social inclusion, and environmental justice.

Project Details

Location: Remote (Global)
Duration: 6 months
Start Date: Immediate
Budget Range: USD 16,000 to USD 20,000

About CIVICUS

CIVICUS is a prominent global alliance comprised of over 15,000 members from more than 175 countries, representing a vibrant coalition dedicated to fortifying citizen action and civil society worldwide. Since its establishment in 1993, CIVICUS has worked to build solidarity among activists across borders, fostering connections, sharing resources, and producing timely, impactful research and analysis that informs advocacy for open civic spaces. Through its commitment to inclusivity, CIVICUS strives to uplift voices often marginalized in societal discourse and working towards transformative, lasting change.

CIVICUS Research Streams

CIVICUS manages two primary research streams—civic space and civil society action. The CIVICUS Monitor tracks global civic space conditions, while CIVICUS Lens offers insightful analyses of civil society developments, documenting stories of civic action and breakthroughs. This year, the Lens team will produce the highly anticipated State of Civil Society Report, which examines major trends in civil society action.

The Focus on Artivism

Artivism bridges the gap between artistic expression and activism, serving as a crucial tool for grappling with systemic change. While constraints on civic space often arise from formal mechanisms such as legal systems, these restrictions are also underscored by foundational cultural beliefs and norms. Artivism confronts these layers of power, engaging with both the overt rules of governance and the subtler, cultural values that sustain them.

The upcoming thematic research report will explore how artivism manifests in various forms, from contemporary artistic practices to traditional cultural expressions. This broad conceptualization recognizes the significance of Indigenous practices that embody resilience and resistance in the face of oppression. Artivism acts as a transformative force, reshaping cultural narratives, creating platforms for marginalized voices, and challenging oppressive systems through creative means. The project aims to document how different expressions of artivism—from digital platforms to grassroots movements—can galvanize social change and nurture alternative visions of society.

Consultant Role and Responsibilities

The selected consultant will play a fundamental role in supporting CIVICUS’s research on artivism. Responsibilities will include:

Conducting comprehensive literature reviews and gathering materials related to artivism, cultural practices, and strategies for social change.
Organizing consultations and conducting interviews with artists, activists, and stakeholders involved in artivism.
Analyzing the intersection of artistic expression with civic action across diverse cultures and geographic regions.
Mapping global trends in artistic activism and evaluating innovative tactics employed in various contexts.
Investigating the effectiveness of digital artivism, particularly in contexts of restricted civic space, to identify how creative resistance strategies can foster solidarity and strengthen movements.

Research Methodology

To ensure comprehensive analysis, the research will employ a mixed-methods approach, which should include:

Participatory research methodologies to actively engage communities involved in artivism.
Documentation of both traditional and contemporary artistic practices, with an emphasis on their cultural significance.
Digital ethnography to examine online creative resistance strategies.
Detailed consideration of cultural contexts, power dynamics, and the protection of sensitive information and sources.

The consultant is expected to provide case studies from at least four different global regions, focusing on the Global South to ensure geographical diversity.

Expected Deliverables

The consultant will be responsible for producing several critical outputs, including:

A detailed research methodology and work plan.
A comprehensive literature review and conceptual framework (15-20 pages).
A global database mapping at least 50 artivist initiatives.
8-10 in-depth case studies (approx. 5 pages each).
20-25 interviews with artists and activists, including analysis of findings.
A comprehensive final report (40-50 pages) synthesizing research findings.
An executive summary with key recommendations (5-7 pages).
A presentation of key findings to relevant stakeholders.
A complete dataset in an agreed format, ensuring all materials are submitted in English with proper citations.

Reporting Structure and Quality Assurance

The consultant will report to the Senior Research Specialist and participate in regular weekly meetings with the research team to discuss progress. Deliverables will be submitted bi-weekly for review, and the consultant is expected to adhere to CIVICUS’s style guide while incorporating feedback to enhance the quality of the research.

Key Requirements

A degree in the Social Sciences or a related field.
Proficiency in English is essential; proficiency in other languages (preferably Arabic, French, and/or Spanish) is advantageous.
A minimum of five years of research experience with a strong focus on social movements and civil society.
Strong qualitative research and interviewing abilities, especially using participatory methodologies.
Familiarity with research ethics, source protection, and documenting artistic practices.
Excellent organizational skills, with the ability to work independently and manage tight deadlines across different time zones effectively.

Application Procedure

Interested candidates should submit the following materials when applying:

Full CV detailing relevant experience.
A one-page cover letter outlining pertinent qualifications and motivation for joining the project.
A research proposal that includes a detailed methodology, a weekly work plan, and a budget breakdown.
A relevant writing sample illustrating the candidate’s analytical and reporting skills.
Two professional references.

CIVICUS will review applications on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews.

For any inquiries, please reach out to [email protected].

This consultancy presents a unique opportunity for researchers passionate about the intersection of art and social change to contribute to meaningful global dialogue. By joining CIVICUS’s efforts, consultants will not only enhance their professional expertise but also engage with transformative movements that challenge injustices and empower communities worldwide.

Remote Job: CIVICUS is Hiring for a Researcher for Project on Artivism