Research audiences: development of new narratives for support to peacebuilding
Profil
Requirements of the Consultant(s)
The following skills and experience are expected by Search for Common Ground of the consultant(s) for this assignment:
* Fluency in English, French, and Dutch is required.
* At least 6 years of experience in political communication, along with familiarity with the political landscape in Belgian politics and EU institutions.
* Proven track record in conducting qualitative and quantitative research, particularly in narrative analysis, framing, and discourse analysis.
* Good written and verbal communication skills to articulate findings and recommendations clearly.
* Ability to employ creative thinking techniques for developing innovative frames and communication strategies.
* Ability to conduct interviews and focus groups, with sensitivity to diverse perspectives and political ideologies.
* Preferably, existing connections with a variety of audiences.
* Ethical Integrity: Commitment to ethical research practices and confidentiality.
How to apply
To apply, interested candidates (individuals or teams) are requested to submit the following documents:
* CV of the consultant(s);
* A technical proposal outlining a proposed methodology, including detailed response to the ToR, suggested work plan and timeline for key deliverables;
* A financial proposal outlining the different costs foreseen for the assignment (broken down in specific budget lines) for the completion of the aforementioned deliverables.
Description
Context
In these complex times, organisations dedicated to peacebuilding, such as Search for Common Ground, face significant challenges. How can we foster understanding when complex issues are often reduced to simplistic, polarised narratives?
Recent elections in Belgium and across Europe have highlighted a shift in political landscapes, with a growing focus on national interests and security concerns. These developments influence the broader discourse on issues like development cooperation, human security, and peacebuilding. As priorities shift towards immediate security measures, long-term peacebuilding efforts may receive less visibility and political and popular support.
In response to these changes, we seek to conduct audience research aimed at identifying new ways to strengthen broad-based support for peacebuilding. We are looking for a (team of) consultant(s) to explore language, narratives, metaphors, and the psychological drivers of communication that resonate across different perspectives. This study will analyse the diverse frames through which various audiences view peace and security and suggest narratives that can complement or enrich these views. Our ultimate goal is to foster broad-based support for peacebuilding efforts and renewed investments in human security.
Goal and Objectives of the assignment
This research aims to explore methods for increasing support for peacebuilding by tailoring our language and key messaging so it appeals to all political perspectives, while maintaining our core organisational values. The research will be conducted in Belgium, targeting three language groups: French, Dutch, and English (for the EU institutional audience in Brussels). Our ultimate goal is not just to map the current situation, but to actively translate the collected information into concrete and ready-to-use narratives. The findings should be scenario-planning oriented, to remain valid for a certain period of time.
Research: language and metaphors
Analysis of frames
Identify entry points
Application and testing
* Explore specific language, metaphors, and entry points that resonate across different audiences, including those with less supportive perspectives on peacebuilding and development cooperation.
* Analyse the narrative frames used in discussions around conflict, security, and peacebuilding.
* Discover narratives that resonate with audiences who may be sceptical of development cooperation and peacebuilding.
* Implement the identified language, metaphors, and alternative narratives in practical contexts.
* Identify additional methods and language to extend communication efforts to wider segments of the population.
Methodology and Deliverables
Methodology
Phase 1: Content Review and Frame Analysis
Phase 4: Broader Audience Engagement
Timing: we expect this research to be completed within a six months time frame, upon signature of the consultancy contract. As part of the submission, the consultant(s) is requested to propose a detailed timeline and work plan.
* Discourse and media review: Analyse the language and frames used by various political figures and media when discussing conflict, security, and peacebuilding.
* Interviews and focus groups: Engage diverse political voices through interviews and focus groups.
* Values mapping: Identify the core values and beliefs behind these frames.
* Expert workshops: Collaborate with specialists to brainstorm potential alternative narratives.
* Creative framing techniques: Use innovative communication strategies to craft new metaphors and messages.
* Testing in small groups: Implement pilot tests of the developed narratives.
* Feedback and refinement: Analyse the feedback from these pilot tests and refine the narratives based on the results.
* Customised communication strategies: Develop communication strategies tailored to various population segments.
* The study will result in a comprehensive report and executive summary with findings, analysis and concrete recommendations for each target audiences.
* Interactive presentation of the results for Search for Common Ground staff.
Budget
The maximum ceiling for this assignment is 28K EUR max, all costs (e.g. taxes) included.
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