Background information
WILPF has embarked on a series of reflections and strategy discussions about the work and the values that bring us together, about the challenges and contexts around us, and the priorities and structures that enable us to work together. We refer to this as the Future WILPF process (for more background see https://future.wilpf.org/).
The debates taking place during the process will shape our next International Programme. They may also result in new ideas and proposals for how we function as WILPF. New ideas and proposals will be presented for adoption at our next Triennial International Congress, WILPF’s highest decision making body, planned for July 2022.
As part of a participatory process, the development of the International Programme involves two key virtual events:
An online workshop with a group of up to 20 people, who over the course of two days (October) will develop the content for the draft International Programme
A vIrtual global conference open to all members to present in which the members will discuss and validate the draft International Programme and its implications for operational plans (mid/end-November 2021).
Due to the uncertainties surrounding the Covid-19 pandemic, our 2022 Congress will also take place in a hybrid format next year. The virtual conference in November 2021 is therefore seen as an organising ‘test run’, where the organisation can try out a selected platform, a set of tools and a combination of engagement modalities that could serve as a template for Congress.
Although WILPF has gained experience in running online meetings and events in the past year, global meetings continue to present particular challenges including competing time zones, language barriers, connectivity problems, varying levels of digital literacy and ‘zoom fatigue’. In addition, the workload involved in coordinating the meeting logistics alongside content matters of meetings has surpassed the capacity of the current team.
Objectives
The overall objective of the assignment is to contribute to making Future WILPF a participatory and efficient engagement process. Specifically, it is to contribute to the organisation of the October 2021 workshop and, in particular, to advise on format and coordinate the November 2021 virtual conference.
Main responsibilities
We are seeking a person with expertise in online engagement. The consultant will be working with the Membership & Communications team at WILPF’s International Secretariat in Geneva (Switzerland), as well as the facilitation team of The Strategy Circle in Cape Town (South Africa). The consultant will further be in contact with WILPF key staff and members in the preparation of the two events.
1. Consult and advise
To research and propose options for a suitable online platform and accompanying tools based on WILPF needs and experience
To advise meeting facilitators on ways to enable and encourage participation, open space for exchange as well as decision making in online spaces, notably the format and tools for the online workshop and virtual conference
2. Coordinate
- To project manage the set up and infrastructure for the Future WILPF virtual conference in November in collaboration with the Membership & Communications team and facilitators
3. Recommend
- To document lessons learned from the events and based on this propose recommendations for Congress 2022
Outputs:
Contribution to workshop planning
Virtual conference platform, plan and implementation
Lessons learned and recommendations (3 options) for Congress 2022
Experience
Knowledge and skills
· Technical knowledge about digital engagement tools and platforms
· Knowledge about facilitation methods in online spaces
· Hands-on experience in running multi-lingual, international online events
· Experience of working across different countries, cultures and time zones
· Awareness of power dynamics and a commitment to inclusivity, equity and anti-racism
Must be able to work in English; other languages (notably French, Spanish or Arabic) are a bonus but not a must.
Terms of contract
Nature of contract : Consultancy assignment
Work Rate : Approximately 20 days spread over the project period, with most of the work happening in November.
Location: Remote
Starting date/End date: 1 October until 17 December 2021
Compensation: The budget available for this assignment is approximately 7,500 CHF (might vary depending on experience)
How to apply:
Interested candidates should submit the following to jobs(a)wilpf.org with “Application for Online Events Expert” in the subject line.
Please attach an up-to-date CV and a cover letter outlining relevant skills and experiences.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, until the role is filled. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
WILPF is an equal opportunity employer. Read more about WILPF as a membership peace organisation on wilpf.org