Journalists Safety in Somalia: Call for Proposals

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is seeking proposals from qualified organizations to implement key activities aimed at strengthening freedom of expression and the journalists safety in Somalia. These activities are part of UNESCO’s ongoing efforts to enhance operational capacities and advocacy skills for protecting the safety of journalists. This initiative aligns with the outcomes of UNESCO’s global programming, particularly focusing on prevention, protection, and prosecution of crimes against journalists.

The selected implementing partner(s) will be responsible for delivering one or two of the following activities in Somalia between Q2 and Q4 of 2025:

Activity 1: Organization of workshops/meetings with key stakeholders

• Objective: Organize at least one workshop or meeting with key stakeholders (e.g., CSOs, journalists, and local authorities) to strengthen operational capacities and advocacy skills.
• Key elements:Focus on journalists safety challenges specific to Somalia, including threats linked to conflict reporting, online violence, and displacement. Prioritize the inclusion and meaningful participation of women journalists, addressing gender-specific threats such as hate speech and physical violence.Build advocacy and coordination capacities for national safety mechanisms, emphasizing risk assessments, monitoring, and reporting.Link to existing frameworks such as the African Charter on Democracy, Elections, and Governance.

• Activity 2: Safety training and provision of protective measures for journalists

• Objective: Deliver safety trainings and provide protective measures to enhance the resilience and safety of journalists in Somalia.
• Key elements:Conduct tailored safety trainings, including conflict/violence reporting techniques, digital safety, and first aid.Offer psychological support, with a focus on addressing trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), particularly for women journalists.Provide appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and guidance on its use and maintenance.Collaborate with local CSOs and other stakeholders to ensure sustained impact.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Demonstrated expertise in media safety, advocacy, and training.
• Proven experience working with CSOs, local authorities, and journalists in conflict or post-conflict settings in Somalia.
• Established presence/implementing partners in Somalia to ensure effective implementation and coordination.

Application guidelines

The deadline for applications is January 31, 2025. For more information and to apply, please click here.