Consultant (Media and Information Literacy)
OVERVIEW
Parent Sector : Communication and Information Sector (CI)
Duty Station: San Jose
Job Family: Communication and Information
Type of contract : Non Staff
Duration of contract : From 7 to 11 months
Recruitment open to : External candidates
Application Deadline (Midnight Duty Station Time) : 27/03/2025
UNESCO Core Values: Commitment to the Organization, Integrity, Respect for Diversity, Professionalism
OVERVIEW OF THE FUNCTIONS OF THE POST
The Communication and Information Sector’s mission is to promote freedom of expression, media development and media literate societies, and to build knowledge societies through fostering universal access to information, innovation for sustainable development and the preservation of documentary heritage. (The role of this vacant position does not include responsibility for UNESCO's wider external communications, which is managed by the Division for Communications and Public Engagement.)
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Under the authority of the Director of San Jose Office, and the direct supervision of Head of Unit for Media and Information Literacy and Digital Competencies (CI/FMD/MIL) and the guidance of the relevant Programme Specialists, the consultant will support the work of the Unit for Media and Information Literacy and Digital Competencies in achieving its global priorities, as well as provide technical assistance in the implementation of the research and MIL components of the project “Social Media 4 Peace,” funded by the European Union.
UNESCO supports the development of Media and Information Literacy and Digital Competencies for all to enable people’s ability to engage critically with information, navigate the online environment safely and responsibly and ensure there can be trust in our information ecosystem and in digital technologies. In this area, UNESCO support MIL through the development of policy and strategy frameworks, policy recommendations, guidelines, curricula, and creation of networks that put critical thinking at the heart of engagement with online and offline information ecosystems.
UNESCO is seeking an individual specialist to support the engagement of Colombian stakeholders in the preparation and organization of the Global MIL Week which will be held in the country in October 2025; and provide technical support to the multistakeholder alliance to ensure their involvement in the event, and strengthen their capacity to advance in the implementation of the Guidelines for the Governance of digital platforms.
Long Description
MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The consultant shall undertake the following assignments:
1. Provide technical support in the implementation of UNESCO’s work for the promotion of Freedom of Expression online, and Media and Information Literacy:
1.1. Provide technical assistance to the Multistakeholder Alliance in Colombia, to develop a workplan with concrete actions aimed at curbing the impact and spread of hate speech and disinformation online in Colombia while protecting freedom of expression.
1.2. Organize strategic meetings and consultations between the Alliance and key actors in the country (including but not limited to authorities, representatives from social media platforms, members of the parliament, etc.), to coordinate efforts to address disinformation and hate speech online, in line with international human rights standards.
1.3. Ensure the engagement of the multistakeholder Alliance with the implementation strategy of the Guidelines for the Governance of Digital Platforms.
1.4. Produce news articles, briefings and activity reports related to the actions being implemented in the framework of UNESCO’s work.
2. Support Event Planning and Execution: Oversee the planning of Global MIL Week 2025 in Colombia.
2.1. Event Coordination and Execution:
• Coordinate logistical arrangements, including the selection of the event management company, venue preparation, equipment setup, and overall event flow.
• Ensure the smooth execution of plenary sessions, side events, and other planned activities.
• Contribute to the preparation of materials such as concept notes; briefings; talking points for bilateral meetings.
• Contribute to the translation of key material from English to Spanish.
2.2. Communication and Liaison:
• Serve as the primary point of contact between UNESCO HQ and the Colombian Government's designated focal points.
• Regularly update UNESCO HQ on the progress of event planning and address any challenges or changes as they arise.
2.3. Stakeholder Engagement and Partnerships:
• Identify and engage relevant stakeholders at the national and regional levels to promote participation and collaboration.
• Facilitate partnerships with governmental agencies, NGOs, private sector entities, and other key actors.
• Coordinate with local and regional partners to integrate their contributions into the event program.
2.4. Technical and Logistical Oversight:
• Manage the event management company to ensure adherence to agreed timelines, budgets, and quality standards.
• Oversee venue arrangements, including space allocation, technical equipment, and accessibility requirements.
• Ensure compliance with UNESCO’s guidelines and standards for event organization.
2.5. Promotion and Awareness:
• Work with UNESCO HQ and local partners to support outreach and communication efforts, including social media promotion and press engagement.
• Contribute to raising awareness of Global MIL Week’s objectives and the importance of media and information literacy.
DELIVERABLES
Monthly payments will be made upon delivery of monthly reports outlining key progress, milestones achieved and planned upcoming activities.
Long Description
COMPETENCIES (Core / Managerial)
-
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
Education
• Advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in communication, media studies, public relations, or a related field.
Work Experience
• At least 3 years of relevant experience in event planning, project management, or international development.
• Experience working with diverse stakeholders, including governments, NGOs, and international organizations.
Skills/Competencies
• Good understanding and knowledge of UNESCO mandate and its programming in the areas of freedom of expression and access to information. Strong analytical and drafting skills.
• Excellent communication skills (written and oral) and ability to exchange, develop and summarize concise information on complex issues.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships in multicultural environment with external and internal partners.
• Excellent organization and planning skills, including the ability to organize own work priorities and deadlines. Discretion and maturity of judgement.
• Ability to work under pressure.
• Familiarity with the UN system.
Languages
• Excellent written and editing skills in English and Spanish.
Long Description
DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS
Work Experience
• Work experience in UNESCO or experience with assignments for the UN is considered an asset.
Languages
• Knowledge of another UNESCO Official language (French, Arabic, Chinese, Russian and Spanish).
Long Description
SELECTION AND RECRUITMENT PROCESS
APPLICATION PROCEDURE:
Interested candidates should complete the on-line application, download and complete the Employment History form (Word file). At the end of the Word file, insert extra pages with the following required information:
Part 1: Technical Proposal
a) an up-to-date curriculum vitae.
b) a statement indicating how their qualifications and experience make them suitable for the assignment.
c) an indication of the approach (methodology, detailed workplan) he/she would adopt to carry out the assignment, including any inputs that may be required from UNESCO.
Part 2: Financial Proposal
a) A competitive fee for the assignment, which should be quoted in EUR (or USD) and expressed on a monthly basis (with maximum of 3,000 USD per month) - the overall cost of the assignment, expressed as an overall lump-sum.
b) Please do not include travel costs. Travel costs required in the course of the consultancy will be included directly in the actual consultant contract.
c) Please submit your supporting documents in English.
Additional Information:
• The selected candidate will work remotely. No travel supported.
• This Consultant Contract is for a period of 8 months.
• Estimated contract start date 01 April 2025 to 20 November 2025.
• Applications submitted without the Technical and Financial proposal will not be considered.
UNESCO places great emphasis on ensuring that the objectives of the work assignment, as described in the Terms of Reference, are met. Accordingly, in evaluating the proposals for the assignment, attention will focus first and foremost on the technical elements. From those proposals deemed suitable in relation to the criteria set forth in the Terms of Reference, UNESCO shall select the proposal that offers the Organization best value for money.
Please note that all candidates must complete an on-line application and provide complete and accurate information. To apply, please visit the UNESCO careers website. No modifications can be made to the application submitted.
The evaluation of candidates is based on the criteria in the vacancy notice, and may include tests and/or assessments, as well as an interview.
UNESCO uses communication technologies such as video or teleconference, e-mail correspondence, etc. for the assessment and evaluation of candidates.
Please note that only selected candidates will be further contacted and candidates in the final selection step will be subject to reference checks based on the information provided.
Footer
UNESCO recalls that paramount consideration in the appointment of staff members shall be the necessity of securing the highest standards of efficiency, technical competence and integrity. UNESCO applies a zero-tolerance policy against all forms of harassment. UNESCO is committed to achieving and sustaining equitable and diverse geographical distribution, as well as gender parity among its staff members in all categories and at all grades. Furthermore, UNESCO is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality and culture. Candidates from non- and under-represented Member States (last update here) are particularly welcome and strongly encouraged to apply. Individuals from minority groups and indigenous groups and persons with disabilities are equally encouraged to apply. All applications will be treated with the highest level of confidentiality. Worldwide mobility is required for staff members appointed to international posts.
UNESCO does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.
Please note that UNESCO is a non-smoking Organization.