Consultant
Grade :
Parent Sector : Communication and Information Sector (CI)
Duty Station: Dakar
Job Family: Communication and Information
Type of contract : Non Staff
Duration of contract : From 1 to 6 months
Recruitment open to : External candidates
Application Deadline (Midnight Paris Time) : 29-09-2020
UNESCO Core Values: Commitment to the Organization, Integrity, Respect for Diversity, Professionalism
Guidelines (for journalists and the media) on safety measures for effective news coverage in the context of an epidemic or pandemic (in French)
The safety of journalists in the coverage of health information, especially in the context of epidemics or pandemics, is of critical importance. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted several shortcomings, including within the newsroom itself, putting at risk the lives of journalists whose professionalism is one of the bulwarks against disinformation. In partnership with the EU, UNESCO is implementing the #CoronavirusFacts project, which builds on the Organization's current work around the world to combat disinformation. The project’s aim is to strengthen population’s resilience to disinformation related to COVID-19. Specifically, UNESCO is working to encourage the media to share professionally and effectively vital information and debunk disinformation about COVID-19, and to support citizens in making evidence-based decisions about their health and engage in the prevention of "infodemia" around COVID-19.
Regarding the safety of journalists, which is necessary for effective coverage of news in times of an epidemic or pandemic, UNESCO, within the framework of this project, seek to elaborate a manual to promote appropriate measures journalists and media can adopt to protect themselves while continuing relaying information that populations need in such context. Furthermore, this intervention is part of UNESCO's response to needs expressed by journalists during the West and Central Africa Regional Consultation on the impact of COVID-19 in the media sector.
OBJECTIVE
This initiative aims to develop operational measures to protect journalists, in the newsroom and in the field, to promote continuity of news coverage in times of an epidemic, and to guarantee access to credible information to populations.
MAIN DELIVERABLES
- Work methodology with a detailed schedule
- Report of the literature review and proposal of the Guide’s content plan
- First draft of the Guide taking into account the results of the literature review
- Report of the consultation with the different targets containing the opinions collected on the first draft
- Second draft of the Guide taking into account the results of the consultation
- Final version of the document
SUBMISSION OF APPLICATION
- To apply, please attach to your application file a proposed work methodology, latest CV and a financial offer (or send the additional files to sa.mbaye@unesco.org with the following reference: DAK/RFP/CI/20/003, as the subject line).
- Master degree in journalism, media, public health communication, epidemiology or any relevant field of study.
- Four years of relevant professional experiences.
- Excellent research, writing and communication skills.
- Very good knowledge and practice of office automation software.
- Very good knowledge of media and journalism practices reporting public health issues.
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 a competency-based 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.
UNESCO applies a zero tolerance policy against all forms of harassment.
UNESCO is committed to achieve and sustain 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. Individuals from minority groups, indigenous groups and persons with disabilities, as well as nationals from non-and under-represented Member States (last update here) 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.
