Support UNRCO Tanzania through systematic research
Organizational Context
The UN Resident Coordinator's Office (UNRCO) in Tanzania coordinates the UN Country Team, comprising 23 agencies. Tanzania faces significant climate change impacts on its socio-economic pillars. The digital sphere presents a vulnerability through the rapid spread of climate-related misinformation and disinformation, which can hinder climate solutions. This assignment aims to address this challenge by strengthening technical assessments and recommendations.
Job Purpose
This assignment supports a Technical Consultant in researching and analyzing climate-related misinformation and disinformation in Tanzania. The goal is to provide systematic research, evidence synthesis, and analytical inputs to inform strategies for countering harmful narratives. The work will pay particular attention to Tanzania's specific policy, media, stakeholder, and socio-economic context. The online volunteer will contribute to strengthening the technical assessment and recommendations, ultimately supporting UN climate communications, advocacy, and programming in Tanzania.
Responsibilities
The role involves supporting a Technical Consultant over a 12-week period, divided into three phases. Phase 1 (Weeks 1-4) requires conducting desk reviews of media, policy documents, and research to gather evidence on climate misinformation. This includes compiling data on its nature, channels, themes, and prevalence, and supporting stakeholder mapping. Phase 2 (Weeks 5-9) focuses on analyzing and synthesizing research findings to identify narrative patterns and information gaps, preparing analytical notes and evidence tables. Phase 3 (Weeks 10-12) involves consolidating research, preparing presentation materials for knowledge sharing, and compiling handover documents for UNRCO and UNEP.
Work Experience
Demonstrated experience in desk research, literature/media review, qualitative or quantitative analysis, and evidence synthesis is required. Experience in campaign design, stakeholder mapping, programme research, or communications research is an asset. Familiarity with Tanzania's development, environmental, and climate policy context, media landscape, and local institutions is highly desirable.
Skills
Strong analytical and writing skills in English are essential for organizing complex information into clear research notes and summaries. Working knowledge of Kiswahili is advantageous for reviewing local sources. Competencies should include research, evidence synthesis, and an ability to support evidence-based initiatives. Familiarity with UN climate programming and communication strategies is beneficial.