Syrian Center for Media and Freedom of Expression (SCM) is an independent, non-governmental, non-profit organization. We seek to build a society that guarantees freedom of expression and belief, human rights, and justice. Our vision is a democratic world based on justice, freedom, equality, and respect for human rights and dignity.
Within the framework of the Media and Freedoms Program, the Syrian Center for Media and Freedom of Expression seeks to promote freedom of the press by launching a National Press Freedom Index. As part of this process, it plans to develop a clear and transparent methodology for measuring the reality of media and expression, and analyzing trends, including a participatory mechanism for discussion and evaluation that contributes to strengthening the media environment and advocating for the rights of journalists.
Therefore, the SCM is looking for a researcher to prepare the mentioned methodology in accordance with the attached terms of reference.
Tender procedure:
| Required documents: | CV proving the required experience and qualifications.At least two references from previous work.Financial offer including:The required Financial compensation.The validity of the offer (duration- date) |
| Application Link: | https://forms.gle/e5ZBEjQcTQWPUbQD9 |
| Email for any questions or explanations | To: [email protected] C.C: [email protected] |
| Evaluation criteria: | Experience (70%)Financial offer (30%) |
| Contract duration: | Until the complete execution of the obligations of the contract (about four months) |
| Deadline for submission of the offers: | 31st March 2026 (5:00 P.M Paris time) |
| Expected starting date of execution: | 3rd April 2026 |
Terms of Reference
Purchase of services (Researcher)
- General Objective:
- To design and develop a scientific methodology for the National Index of Media and Expression Freedom in Syria.
- The Detailed Objectives:
- To develop indicators that conform to international standards and are adapted to the Syrian context.
- To design measurable tools for quantitative and qualitative analysis.
- To adapt the tools to artificial intelligence to ensure ease of monitoring.
- To ensure the ability to generate periodic reports based on monitoring and measurement results.
- Detailed Tasks:
- Conduct a desk study of international media and expression freedom indicators, and adapt it to the Syrian context (first month of contract).
- Conduct opinion polls to develop the measurement tool (second month).
- Conduct interviews, focus group discussions, and in-depth sessions with stakeholders (second month).
- Draft the methodology (mid-third month).
- Facilitate two in-person discussion sessions (two local workshops in Damascus) with relevant officials, experts, and journalists to review the methodology (end of the third month).
- Submit an updated version of the methodology and indicators, addressing the recorded feedback (fourth month).
- Qualifications and skills required:
- At least a Master’s degree in a relevant field (preferably in law, media, or human rights).
- A minimum of ten years of experience in media, international law, or human rights.
- Advanced knowledge of international freedom of media and expression standards.
- Proven experience in preparing research and studies related to the required methodology.
- Ability to translate legal frameworks into practical tools that are sensitive to the local context.
- Advanced analytical skills.
