About Sawt

The Strengthening Civil Society and Media Systems (Sawt) Activity is a five-year (2022-2027) cooperative agreement implemented by Internews in partnership with Mercy Corps and the International Center for Not-for-Profit Law (ICNL). Sawt aims to foster sustained civic engagement in Jordan through civil society and digital media innovations through two objectives: 1) Good, Trusted Knowledge-Building Resources: Citizens and civil society build knowledge through accessing and engaging critically with accurate and fact-based information and 2) Participation & Advocacy: Citizens and civil society organizations (CSOs) in Jordan effectively participate in civic spaces and advocate for policies through knowledge-based collective action.

About Internews

Internews is an international nonprofit operating in 100 countries. At Internews, we believe everyone deserves trustworthy news and information to make informed decisions about their lives and hold power to account. We train journalists and digital rights activists, tackle disinformation, and offer business expertise to help media outlets become financially sustainable. For more information about the organization please visit: www.internews.org.

Summary

Sawt intends to engage a service provider for the creation of an inclusive media manual, aimed at empowering journalists and media outlets to produce content that embraces diversity, upholds human rights principles, and actively promotes inclusivity. This manual will be meticulously evidence-based, involving a comprehensive study to identify gaps in media content that may perpetuate discrimination or lack respect, Also, the manual will reference credible resources including relevant Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI) and media resources of Internews. while also determining strategies for fostering inclusive media content. Furthermore, the service provider will create an Arabic training manual as a supplement to the inclusive media manual. This training resource will provide media practitioners with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively implement the guidelines and recommendations outlined in the inclusive media manual.

Introduction

Sawt recognizes the prevalent occurrence of discriminatory, disrespectful, or insufficiently inclusive media content, indicating a notable deficiency in acknowledging and honoring diversity and human rights. A gender equality and social inclusion analysis conducted in 2022 revealed stark inequalities in media portrayal, with a notable absence of counter-stereotypes. Women continue to be depicted in subordinate roles, while persons with disabilities (PWDs) are often positioned with a ‘self-pity-sad’ narrative. Furthermore, an Information Ecosystem assessment (IEA) conducted in 2023 highlighted instances of media disrespect towards certain groups, particularly in the portrayal of PWDs, either through a lens of success or by soliciting donations. The assessment also emphasized the desire of PWDs for increased access to diverse content, indicating a need for normalized representation in media. Additionally, the IEA showed that the media are certainly not providing content that is appealing or engaging to young Jordanians, particularly in relation to political processes and events. These findings underscore the urgent necessity for comprehensive interventions to address these issues and ensure that media content aligns with human rights principles, fostering an inclusive

environment that respects diversity and upholds the dignity of all individuals.

Objectives

This ToR outlines the scope of work for three primary deliverables:

1. Development of a specialized media inclusivity study in Arabic to comprehensively understand gaps related to discriminatory and disrespectful media content.
2. Development of inclusive media manual in Arabic based on insights gained from the study and utilizing relevant USAID and Internews resources, aimed at empowering journalists and media outlets to create inclusive content.
3. Development of a training manual in Arabic to complement the inclusive media manual, providing media practitioners with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively implement the guidelines and recommendations outlined in the inclusive media manual, additionally, conducting three training sessions for 60 journalists.

Scope of Work

1. Media Inclusivity Study in Arabic:
   
   1.1 Research Design: Develop a research methodology incorporating both qualitative and quantitative approaches, utilizing surveys, interviews, content analysis, and case studies to gather relevant data on discriminatory or disrespectful media content and identify gaps.
   
   1.2 Comprehensive Content Analysis: Perform thorough analysis of media content, reviewing existing research and literature on inclusive media practices to understand current challenges and gaps related to discriminatory or disrespectful media content.
   
   1.3 Stakeholder Consultation: Engage with key stakeholders, including journalists, media professionals, advocacy groups, and representatives from diverse communities, to gather insights, concerns, and perspectives on inclusivity in media content.
   
   1.4 Data Collection: Implement the research design to collect relevant data on existing media content, analyzing patterns and common issues, and identifying specific examples of discriminatory content requiring enhancement.
   
   1.5 Report and Analysis: Compile and analyze research findings, providing evidence-based insights into the current state of media inclusivity and identifying areas for improvement.
   
2. Inclusive Media Manual in Arabic:
   
   2.1 Manual Development: Based on study findings and referencing relevant USAID and Internews resources, develop a comprehensive manual addressing identified gaps and challenges, including practical guidelines, best practices, and examples to empower journalists and media outlets to create inclusive content.
   
   2.2 Review and Feedback: Seek feedback from stakeholders on the draft manual, incorporating constructive input to enhance content and effectiveness.
   
3. A training manual in Arabic:
   
   3.1 Training Manual Development: Building upon the Inclusive Media Manual, develop an Arabic training manual aimed at complementing the existing manual. This training manual will equip media practitioners with the requisite knowledge and skills to proficiently implement the guidelines and recommendations outlined in the inclusive media manual.
   
   3.2 Training Delivery: Deliver three training sessions tailored for 60 journalists, focusing on imparting the necessary knowledge and skills required to effectively implement the guidelines and recommendations provided in the inclusive media manual.

Deliverables

The roadmap for successfully executing the project and attaining its objectives is as follows:

Milestone	Deliverables	Description	Delivery Dates
1	Media Inclusivity Study Deliverables
1.1	Final draft of research methodology and design	Detailed research methodology document outlining the approach for both qualitative and quantitative methods.	7th of May 2024
1.2	Final draft of desk review report	Final draft of desk review report clarifying the status of media content concerning the adherence to human rights and inclusivity incorporating relevant resources from USAID and Internews.	16th of May 2024
1.3	Tools development	Final set of research tools, which includes: A comprehensive questionnaire for surveys, detailing the characteristics of the targeted journalist sample.Key Informant Interviews (KII) methodology and questions, accompanied by suggested names of interviewees.Focus groups methodology and questions, along with details of the characteristics of the groups. Ensure that all tools are well-structured and aligned with the objectives of the research study, incorporating relevant resources from USAID and Internews.	26th of May 2024
1.4	Final Tools Version	Reflect Internews comments.	2nd of June 2024
1.5	Data Collection	Conduct data collection for approved sample and submit all raw data collected during the data collection phase, including transcribed interviews and focus group discussions. Additionally, ensure that quantitative data obtained from questionnaires administered to the targeted groups is incorporated.	13th of June 2024
1.6	First draft of the final report	A comprehensive study report in Arabic that clearly presents the findings of the desk review and research. Ensure it provides a holistic overview, covering various dimensions of media content to offer a thorough understanding of the current situation, challenges, and gaps in discriminatory or disrespectful media content. The report should delve deeply into the identified issues, offering clear recommendations and suggested actions to address the challenges and promote a more inclusive and respectful media environment. Additionally, provide technical directions for developing the inclusive media manual to guide the creation of content that aligns with human rights and inclusive principles.	23rd of June 2024
1.7	Designed Final Report	Reflect on all Internews comments.	4th of July 2024
1.8	Draft Presentation	Create a concluding presentation to distribute the findings of the report.	15th of July 2024
1.9	Final Presentation	Reflect all Internews comments	18th of July 2024
2	Inclusive Media Manual Deliverables
2.1	Manual first draft	Initial draft of the inclusive media manual in Arabic based on study findings, USAID and Internews resources, addressing the identified gaps and challenges in media content. This draft should present a comprehensive framework incorporating practical guidelines, best practices, and illustrative examples to promote inclusivity in media development and production. Ensure that the manual offers clear and actionable recommendations for content developers, empowering them to enhance human rights adherence and inclusivity in their work. Prioritize a user-friendly format that facilitates easy understanding and implementation of the proposed guidelines.	21st of July 2024
2.2	Final Manual	Final draft of the inclusive media manual, building upon the initial draft and incorporating feedback received during the review process. This version should reflect a polished and comprehensive resource that addresses the identified gaps and challenges in media content. This refined draft of the manual should represent a valuable tool for fostering an inclusive media landscape that upholds principles of human rights and inclusion.	30th of July 2024
2.3	Designed Manual	Design the final manual.	11th of August 2024
	Training manual in Arabic
3.1	Training Manual	Arabic training manual to complement the inclusive media manual, providing media practitioners with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively implement the guidelines and recommendations outlined in the inclusive media manual. The Training manual should encompass detailed, interactive, and diverse learning styles, methods and modules covering essential topics and application of inclusive media manual.	15th of August 2024
3.2	Training Delivery	Organizing and conducting three training sessions for 60 journalists, with a focus on imparting the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively implement the guidelines and recommendations provided in the inclusive media manual.	10th of September 2024
3.3	Training Report	Submit final trainings report in English, including comprehensive details on the training sessions, findings, and recommendations.	15th of September 2024

Eligibility of the Service Providers:

1. Legally registered in Jordan including non-profit organizations, research institutions, private companies, and media development agencies.
2. Proven records of the following:
   • Designing and conducting comprehensive, in-depth studies, research, and reports in the field of media and human rights, with a focus on Arab media content.
   • Creating and developing manuals and guidelines, especially in the media and human rights sectors.
   • Developing training manuals and programs and conducting training, especially in the media and human rights sectors.
   • Working with diverse stakeholders, including journalists, media outlets, civil society organizations, and people with disabilities.
3. Languages: While the project materials will be primarily in Arabic, a fundamental proficiency in English is required for communication and reporting purposes.
4. The service provider is required to assemble a team of experts with expertise in both the media field and human rights.

Evaluation Criteria

Submitted proposals will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

Description	Points
Understanding the Project and Relevant Experience Clearly explains how the service provider will meet the objectives outlined in the SOW. Understanding the challenges and needs related to media inclusivity in Jordan. Experience in collaborating with diverse stakeholders, including journalists, media outlets, and civil society organizations.	30 points
Methodology and Deliverables Clarity and comprehensiveness of the research design. Use of a mixed-methods approach (qualitative and quantitative). Emphasis on user-centered design principles, ensuring the materials are clear, practical, and accessible to target audiences.	30 points
Team Expertise and Qualifications Team composition with relevant expertise in media, human rights, and research methodologies. Experience of team members in developing manuals, guidelines, and training materials Experience in facilitating interactive training sessions.	20 points
Financial Proposal The financial proposal is competitive and demonstrates good value for the proposed services. The financial proposal clearly outlines the breakdown of costs and justifies the proposed expenses.	20 points
TOTAL	100 points

Duration and Level of Efforts

This assignment is anticipated to span from May 1st to September 15th, 2024, comprising a maximum of 65 working days.

Proposal Content

Service providers interested in participating in this solicitation must provide the following:  

1. Registration Certificate: Provide proof of legal registration in Jordan.
2. Technical Proposal detailing the approach and methodology:
   • Explain the proposed approach and methodology for conducting studies, research, and report development in media and human rights.
   • Describe how the service provider will create and develop manuals and guidelines, ensuring they are tailored to address the needs of the media and human rights sectors.
   • Provide the composition, names, and bios of the team members with relevant expertise in media, human rights, and research methodologies.
3. Full Financial Proposal: Include a comprehensive financial proposal outlining the detailed budget for the proposed project.
4. Provide a previous sample showcasing one of the following:
   • Provide samples of creating and developing manuals and guidelines, specifically within the media and human rights sectors.
   • Provide examples of training manuals, and programs, especially within the media and human rights sectors.

Proposal Submission Deadline

Proposals must be submitted by 15:00 on the 18th of April 2024, by email to [email protected] with the subject line “Inclusive Media Manual”.

Inquiries

For any inquiries or clarifications regarding the assignment, reach out to [email protected] by 15:00 on the 15th of April 2024.