Consultant (Media and Information Literacy) (San Jose, Costa Rica) contract

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

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.

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. 

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.

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).