CIVICUS Global Alliance: Remote Consultancy Opportunity – Social Listening & Digital Manipulation Expert (Apply by 30 March 2026)

In an era where digital narratives shape the political realities and influence civic freedoms, organizations working at the intersection of technology and democracy are increasingly vital. One such global leader is CIVICUS Global Alliance, which is now inviting applications for a highly specialized consultancy role focused on social listening and digital manipulation research.

This fully remote opportunity offers experienced professionals the chance to contribute to cutting-edge global research while supporting efforts to protect civic space and democracy worldwide. If you have expertise in digital research, data analysis, and combating disinformation, this role could be your next big career move.

About CIVICUS Global Alliance

CIVICUS Global Alliance is an international network of the civil society organizations and activists committed to strengthening citizen action across the globe. Through advocacy, research, and collaboration, CIVICUS works tirelessly to defend civic freedoms and empower communities to engage meaningfully in democratic processes.

With headquarters in Johannesburg and hubs in New York and Geneva, the organization operates on a global scale, addressing issues that affect civic participation, human rights, and democratic governance.

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About the Digital Democracy Initiative (DDI)

The consultancy is part of the Digital Democracy Initiative (DDI), a collaborative programme designed to counter shrinking civic space in the digital age. This initiative brings together leading organizations such as Access Now, Digital Defenders Partnership, and others to promote inclusive democracy through technology.

Led by CIVICUS, the DDI aims to empower civil society actors—especially in the Global South—to use digital tools effectively for civic engagement. The initiative focuses on strengthening resilience against digital threats, including misinformation, surveillance, and online manipulation.

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Role Overview

CIVICUS is seeking an experienced consultant to lead the implementation of research projects examining digital manipulation and its impact on civic space. The consultant will play a critical role in designing methodologies, analyzing data, and generating insights that will inform global research publications.

• Location: Remote (Open globally)
• Contract Duration: 10–12 months
• Application Deadline: 30 March 2026

This role requires close collaboration with the DDI programme team to ensure that all research outputs are methodologically sound, ethically responsible, and impactful.

Scope of Work

The selected consultant will develop three comprehensive research data packages focused on the key themes in digital manipulation:

1. Algorithmic Bias & Polarisation

Explore how digital platforms amplify certain narratives and influence public perception. This includes examining how algorithms contribute to political polarization and unequal visibility.

2. Digital Manipulation During Elections

Monitor online discourse during electoral cycles to detect disinformation, coordinated campaigns, and platform bias that may affect democratic outcomes.

3. Early Warning Indicators

Identify patterns in digital narratives that may signal upcoming civic restrictions, such as protests suppression or restrictive legislation.

These research outputs will contribute to global discussions on safeguarding democracy in the digital era.

Key Responsibilities

Research Design & Methodology

• Develop a robust social listening framework
• Identify relevant keywords, hashtags, and influencer networks
• Recommend appropriate tools such as Brandwatch or similar platforms
• Ensure compliance with ethical and legal data standards

Data Collection & Analysis

• Conduct structured social listening across multiple platforms
• Produce clean, well-documented datasets
• Perform sentiment analysis, network analysis, and narrative mapping
• Create data visualisations and analytical summaries

Capacity Building

• Deliver at least three training sessions for CIVICUS staff
• Provide ongoing technical support throughout the project
• Recommend sustainable approaches for internal capacity development

Expected Deliverables

The consultancy includes several key deliverables:

1. Inception Report – outlining methodology, tools, and ethical considerations
2. Three Research Data Packages – including datasets, insights, and visualisations
3. Capacity Building Package – training materials and recorded sessions
4. Final Report – summarizing lessons learned and future recommendations

These outputs will directly inform CIVICUS publications and advocacy strategies.

Reporting Structure

The consultant will report to the DDI Project Learning & Communications Officer and the Programme Lead. Collaboration will also involve working with editorial teams, local partners, and civic tech experts to ensure the research is comprehensive and actionable.

Required Qualifications

To be successful in this role, candidates must demonstrate:

• Proven expertise in social listening and digital disinformation research
• Strong skills in both quantitative and qualitative analysis
• Experience using digital research and analytics tools
• Background in democracy, elections, or civic space issues
• Experience in training and capacity building
• Previous work with international NGOs, particularly in Global South contexts

This role is best suited for professionals who are passionate about defending democracy and skilled in navigating complex digital ecosystems.

Application Process

Interested applicants must submit the following documents via email before 30 March 2026:

• Technical proposal (maximum 7 pages)
• Methodology outline
• Financial proposal with detailed cost breakdown
• CVs of key team members
• 2–3 relevant work samples

Early applications are encouraged, as this is a highly competitive opportunity.

Why You Should Apply

This consultancy offers a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of digital democracy and civic innovation. By joining CIVICUS Global Alliance, you will contribute to impactful research that shapes global conversations on technology, governance, and human rights.

The role also allows for flexible remote work, collaboration with international experts, and the chance to influence policies that protect civic freedoms worldwide.

Final Thoughts

As digital platforms continue to evolve, so do the challenges facing democracy. From algorithmic bias to coordinated disinformation campaigns, the need for robust research and informed interventions has never been greater.

This consultancy with CIVICUS Global Alliance is more than just a job—it’s an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on global civic space. If you have the expertise and passion for digital research and democracy, don’t miss this chance to be part of a transformative initiative.