Apply Now for the SMEX Short-Term Consultancy Researcher: USD 4,000 Renumeration Available
Vision and Mission
The organization envisions a future where everyone living in West Asia–North Africa (WANA) and the diaspora can safely access and engage with the internet, mobile services, and other networked spaces without fear of censorship, surveillance, or retaliation.
Its mission is to advance freedom of expression and the right to privacy across the WANA region through rigorous research and reporting, monitoring state and technology company policies, protecting the safety and security of online users, and collaborating with regional advocates to sustain a safer and more open digital environment.
Context
Across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), digital authoritarianism is intensifying at an alarming pace. Governments are rapidly expanding surveillance capabilities, deploying coordinated disinformation campaigns, and introducing restrictive cybercrime and media laws aimed at silencing dissent and controlling online spaces.
At the same time, authoritarian regimes—particularly in the Gulf—are increasingly exporting, financing, or influencing surveillance technologies, digital infrastructure, and governance models across the region. These transnational dynamics are reshaping how repression operates beyond national borders.
Despite these growing threats, civil society responses remain fragmented and under-resourced, limiting their ability to respond collectively and strategically.
There is an urgent need for coordinated research, contextual mapping, and shared analysis to inform a regional digital rights strategy that strengthens advocacy, policy engagement, and collective resistance to digital repression.
Project Overview
This short-term research consultancy forms part of a SMEX-led initiative to develop a Regional Digital Rights Strategy for the MENA region. The project aims to strengthen the capacity of civil society actors to understand, document, and respond to digital repression at both national and regional levels.
The consultant will generate evidence-based research on the legal, political, and technological drivers of digital authoritarianism, with a particular focus on Gulf technology influence across the region. Research findings will directly inform inclusive consultations, national webinars, and regional convenings, culminating in a shared advocacy and policy roadmap for the next 3–5 years.
Scope of Work and Responsibilities
The Research Consultant will lead the design, coordination, and production of in-depth qualitative research across 3–5 MENA countries (to be selected by SMEX). Working closely with the Project Lead, policy team, and partner organizations, the consultant will be responsible for the following:
Research Framework and Coordination
- Design and refine a robust research methodology that ensures consistency, ethical standards, and contextual relevance across countries
- Coordinate with in-country researchers and partner organizations to support data collection and contextual analysis
Data Collection and Analysis
- Conduct or supervise qualitative research, including:
- Case studies on digital repression, censorship, and online harassment
- Reviews of national legal and regulatory frameworks, including cybercrime, media, and digital governance laws
- Document Gulf technology and policy influence across the region, such as:
- Government or institutional contracts with Gulf-based technology firms
- Cross-border surveillance cooperation or regional disinformation initiatives
- Analyze findings to identify patterns, emerging risks, and opportunities for coordinated regional advocacy
Reporting and Knowledge Production
- Produce a comparative analysis highlighting cross-country trends and regional dynamics
- Draft a policy brief with clear, actionable recommendations for civil society, donors, and policymakers
- Present findings to SMEX and coalition partners to inform the Regional Digital Rights Strategy
Deliverables and Timeline
All deliverables must be completed by 30 April 2026. Expected outputs include:
- Research methodology and detailed work plan (by end of January 2026)
- Country-level research reports (January–February 2026)
- Comparative analysis and policy brief (by end of March 2026)
- Submission of the fully edited final research report (by end of April 2026)
- Presentation or summary brief for inclusion in Bread&Net and other relevant regional events
Qualifications and Experience
Applicants should meet the following criteria:
- Bachelor’s degree in Public Policy, Law, Political Science, Human Rights, International Relations, or a related field
- Strong research, analytical, and writing skills in English and Arabic
- Proven experience in digital rights research, technology policy, or governance in the MENA region
- Solid understanding of surveillance practices, legal frameworks, and online freedoms
- Demonstrated experience conducting or supervising multi-country research projects
- Ability to synthesize complex information into clear and actionable insights
- Prior engagement with civil society networks, advocacy groups, or coalitions in at least one MENA country
- Strong capacity to translate technical or complex material into accessible communication for diverse audiences
Consultancy Details
- Duty Station: Beirut, Lebanon
- Work Arrangement: Hybrid / Remote
- Employment Status: Consultancy
- Reporting Line: Project Lead
- Duration: 4 months (January 2026 – April 2026)
- Remuneration: Total of USD 4,000, paid in three installments based on agreed deliverables
Application Process
Interested applicants should complete the application form provided by the organization.
- Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
Applicants are also encouraged to subscribe to the newsletter #remotejobsopportunities for updates on job opportunities and digital rights developments across the region.
