CIVICUS Global Alliance is seeking a remote Research Consultant for its Digital Democracy Initiative to explore digital sovereignty and civic technology alternatives. Applications close on 26 April 2026.
CIVICUS Global Alliance has opened applications for a Research Consultant: Digital Sovereignty & Alternative Technologies under its Digital Democracy Initiative (DDI). This remote consultancy offers a unique opportunity for experienced researchers to contribute to global conversations around digital governance, civic space, and technology alternatives that support democratic participation. The assignment is expected to run for four to five months in 2026, with applications closing on 26 April 2026.
Strengthening Civil Society Through Digital Innovation
Civil society organizations across the world increasingly rely on digital infrastructure to organize, mobilize, and advocate. However, much of this infrastructure is controlled by commercial platforms and centralized services, creating vulnerabilities such as surveillance risks, censorship, and sudden service disruptions. CIVICUS seeks to address these challenges by mapping emerging civic technologies and identifying alternatives that promote digital independence and resilience.
The consultancy builds on previous research, including CIVICUS’ work on community-owned digital infrastructure. Rather than focusing purely on technical evaluation, the assignment emphasizes how digital tools can support freedom of expression, association, and collective action. The consultant will examine both external-facing tools used for public engagement and internal systems that civil society organizations rely on for daily operations.
About the Digital Democracy Initiative
The Digital Democracy Initiative emerged from Denmark’s Tech for Democracy efforts to promote inclusive democratic participation in the digital era. The programme is implemented through a consortium of partners, including global civil society and digital rights organizations. The initiative aims to strengthen civic space, particularly in regions where freedoms are restricted and digital risks are high.
Through this consultancy, CIVICUS intends to produce practical, actionable guidance for civil society organizations seeking sustainable technology alternatives. The research will support organizations working in challenging contexts, especially across the Global South, where access to secure and independent digital infrastructure is critical.
Scope of the Consultancy
The selected consultant will conduct comprehensive research and develop a detailed report exploring emerging civic technologies and alternatives to mainstream digital platforms. The assignment is structured around five key areas.
The first task involves research mapping and literature review. The consultant will analyze existing work on digital sovereignty, civic technology ecosystems, open-source tools, and platform governance. This includes updating previous CIVICUS research and identifying new developments in community-owned infrastructure.
The second component focuses on case study analysis. The consultant will examine real-world examples of civic technology tools used by civil society organizations. These case studies will explore adoption challenges, sustainability, governance models, and regional variations. Particular attention will be given to solutions used in restrictive environments and across the Global South.
The third task requires synthesizing insights from CIVICUS programmes and partner organizations. This will help ensure that recommendations reflect practical experiences and lessons learned from existing initiatives.
The fourth area centers on strategic analysis and recommendations. The consultant will identify opportunities to strengthen digital resilience, reduce dependency on large technology providers, and promote sustainable alternatives. This includes assessing funding models, governance frameworks, and scalability of community-driven solutions.
Finally, the consultant will develop a comprehensive research report. The document will provide actionable guidance for civil society organizations, funders, and stakeholders. The report is expected to include contextual analysis, case studies, strategic recommendations, and practical implementation advice.
Deliverables and Outputs
The consultancy will produce several key deliverables. These include an inception note outlining methodology, a research mapping brief, a draft report for review, and a final publication-ready report. Additionally, the consultant will prepare a presentation summarizing findings for CIVICUS partners and stakeholders.
The final report is expected to span approximately 40 to 60 pages and provide accessible insights for practitioners. This ensures the research is not only academically rigorous but also practical for organizations working in complex environments.
Required Qualifications
CIVICUS is seeking applicants with strong research and analytical skills, particularly in areas such as technology governance, digital democracy, or civic space. Experience working with international civil society organizations is highly desirable, especially in Global South contexts. Candidates should also demonstrate familiarity with civic tech ecosystems, platform governance, and digital commons.
Applicants must submit a technical proposal, financial proposal, curriculum vitae, and two relevant writing samples. Both individuals and organizations are encouraged to apply.
A Global Remote Opportunity
This consultancy is fully remote and open to applicants worldwide. It provides an opportunity to influence how civil society organizations approach digital infrastructure and technology adoption in the coming years. By contributing to this research, the selected consultant will help shape strategies that strengthen democratic participation and digital resilience globally.
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