Background
The CIVICUS Monitor is a comprehensive online platform dedicated to providing detailed information and analysis on the state of civic space across the globe. Civic space refers to the fundamental freedoms of association, expression, and peaceful assembly, along with the obligation of states to protect civil society. The platform covers 198 countries and territories, offering in-depth assessments, ratings, and regular updates on civic space conditions based on a rigorous methodology.
CIVICUS collaborates with over 20 regional research partners worldwide, who contribute timely updates on civic space developments, restrictions, and incidents. These updates are crucial for informing the annual People Power Under Attack (PPUA) report, published every December, which assesses the global state of civic freedoms.
To maintain the accuracy and comprehensiveness of this vital data, CIVICUS requires specialized support for data management and incident recording. Specifically, the organization seeks a dedicated consultant to oversee the data entry process for civic space incidents documented in the Monitor updates and to systematically record these incidents into the Civic Space Incident Data Form.
Purpose of the Consultancy
The primary objective of this consultancy is to support the CIVICUS Civic Space Research team by efficiently entering, organizing, and managing data related to civic space incidents from the latest Monitor updates. The consultant will ensure that all relevant incidents are accurately captured in the designated data collection tools, enabling comprehensive analysis and reporting.
This role is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the civic space database, which underpins the organization’s advocacy and research efforts, especially in preparation for the upcoming PPUA report.
Scope of Work
The consultancy involves the following key activities:
- Data Entry and Recording:
- Review the latest civic space updates published by the CIVICUS Monitor.
- Extract relevant incident data, including details of restrictions, violations, or positive developments concerning civic space in specific countries and territories.
- Input this incident data accurately into the Civic Space Incident Data Form, following the predefined format and standards.
- Data Verification and Quality Control:
- Ensure that all entered data is accurate, complete, and consistent with the source material.
- Flag any discrepancies, ambiguities, or missing data for further clarification with the CIVICUS team.
- Organization and Archiving:
- Maintain a systematic record of all incident entries to facilitate easy retrieval and analysis.
- Organize incident data chronologically, geographically, or thematically as required.
- Reporting and Feedback:
- Provide regular updates on data entry progress to the CIVICUS team.
- Support the preparation of summary reports or datasets needed for internal analysis or external reporting.
- Additional Support:
- Assist with any ad hoc data-related tasks or research requests as needed to support the Civic Space Research team.
Qualifications, Skills, and Experience
The ideal candidate will possess the following:
- Educational Background:
- Pursuing or holding a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in international relations, political science, human rights, social sciences, or related fields. Students are encouraged to apply.
- Language Skills:
- Excellent written and spoken English proficiency.
- Research and Analytical Skills:
- Basic understanding of human rights issues, civic space monitoring, and related analytical frameworks.
- Experience with research, data collection, and data analysis in human rights or related fields is desirable.
- Technical Skills:
- Proficiency in Excel, including data entry, organization, and basic data analysis functions.
- Confidence in using online data collection and management tools.
- Work Style and Competencies:
- Ability to work independently, remotely, and with minimal supervision.
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
- Good interpersonal and communication skills.
- Demonstrated ability to meet deadlines and work efficiently under pressure.
Duration and Timeline
This consultancy is scheduled to run from June 2025 through December 2025, with work based on the publication schedule of the CIVICUS Monitor updates. The workload may vary, with potential increases in activity during critical reporting periods (notably prior to the December PPUA report).
The consultant is expected to allocate a flexible number of hours per week, with an anticipated increase in hours during the latter months of the year to meet reporting deadlines.
Application Process
Interested applicants are requested to submit a comprehensive proposal including:
- Motivation/Interest:
- A brief statement explaining your interest in this consultancy and how your background aligns with the role.
- Experience and Capabilities:
- An up-to-date CV highlighting relevant experience, especially in research, data entry, or human rights monitoring.
- Examples of previous work or projects related to data management or civic space issues.
- Samples of work, if available.
- Activities, Timeline, and Budget:
- A detailed proposed hourly or daily rate, expressed in USD.
- If based in South Africa, rates should be provided in ZAR.
- A suggested timeline indicating your availability, including weekly hours, and noting any periods of unavailability.
- Additional Information:
- Any relevant certifications or training.
- Confirmation of availability to start in June 2025.
Proposals should be submitted via the designated online platform or email, as specified in the application instructions, no later than COB 26 May 2025.
Selection Process
Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview or further discussions to assess their suitability for the consultancy. The final selection will be based on the candidate’s experience, skills, proposed rates, and availability.
The consultancy will be awarded based on best fit and capacity to deliver quality work within the specified timeline. The selected consultant will be expected to adhere to CIVICUS’s standards for confidentiality, accuracy, and professional conduct.
Remuneration
Payment will be made based on the agreed hourly or daily rate, with invoices submitted monthly or upon completion of specific milestones, as mutually agreed. All financial arrangements will comply with CIVICUS’s policies and applicable regulations.
Contact
For questions or further information, interested applicants should contact the designated CIVICUS project coordinator via email or through the application portal.
Conclusion
This consultancy offers a valuable opportunity for individuals passionate about human rights, civic space, and data management to contribute to a globally significant project. Your work will directly support efforts to monitor and analyze civic freedoms, informing advocacy and policy work aimed at protecting civil society worldwide. We look forward to your application and the possibility of collaborating to promote civic space and human rights globally.
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