GBV/VAW Specialist Trainer - Consultancynew

1. Background

MiCT is implementing “Words That Protect” project that supports gender-responsive journalism and more responsible media coverage of violence against women in Iraq.

to strengthen collaborative journalism and gender-responsive reporting on violence against women (VAW) in Iraq. Component 2 combines media monitoring and baseline research, capacity building for Iraqi journalists, supported story production, and reflection on reporting practices.

The research examines how Iraqi media cover gender-based violence (GBV) and VAW, including terminology, framing, source selection, contextualisation, and the representation of survivors. Its findings will inform capacity-building activities and provide a reference for assessing reporting produced through the project.

MiCT seeks a GBV/VAW Expert and trainer to support the interpretation of research findings, review terminology and thematic accuracy, and deliver one day within the capacity-building workshop.

2. Objective of the Assignment

To strengthen the conceptual accuracy and survivor-centred approach of the project’s research interpretation and training, and improve participating journalists’ understanding of gender, GBV/VAW, and the social dynamics that shape violence against women in Iraq.

3. Scope of Work

The expert will undertake the following tasks in coordination with the Project Lead, research team, and lead trainer.

A. Research interpretation and technical review — two working days

Review the research findings with the research team to verify gender and GBV/VAW terminology, strengthen conceptual accuracy and interpretation in the Iraqi context, and identify key messages for training. Provide consolidated written feedback with recommended revisions.

B. Training delivery — one working day

Deliver 1 day training within the Component 2 workshop covering gender and power relations, forms and root causes of VAW, harmful norms and misconceptions, and survivor-centred principles, including consent, confidentiality, and avoiding secondary harm.

C. Preparation and reporting — two working days

Coordinate with the research team and lead trainer, prepare the session plan and supporting materials, and submit a concise report summarising the contribution, key observations, and recommendations.

The allocation of these two days between preparation and reporting will be agreed in the consultancy workplan.

4. Deliverables

Deliverables will be submitted to MiCT for review and acceptance in coordination with the Project Lead. Exact submission dates will be agreed in the consultancy workplan.

• Research review feedback: Consolidated comments on terminology, conceptual accuracy, and interpretation, with recommended revisions and key messages for training.
• Training plan and materials: A session plan, presentation, and practical exercises for the agreed training day.
• Delivery of one training day: Facilitation of the agreed gender and GBV/VAW sessions within the capacity-building workshop.
• Final assignment report: A concise summary of support delivered, key observations, and recommendations.

6. Coordination and Responsibilities

The expert will work under the supervision of the Project Lead and coordinate closely with the research team and lead trainer. MiCT will provide relevant research materials, the workshop framework, participant information, and project templates.

7. Required Qualifications and Experience

• Relevant academic qualification in gender studies, social sciences, human rights, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
• Demonstrated expertise in gender equality, GBV/VAW, and survivor-centred approaches.
• Strong understanding of the Iraqi context, including social norms and barriers faced by survivors.
• Experience reviewing research findings and translating complex concepts into accessible learning materials.
• Experience designing and delivering participatory training for adult audiences.
• Excellent spoken and written Arabic.
• Ability to coordinate with the project team and review relevant materials in English.

Previous work with journalists or media development programmes is an advantage. Journalism expertise is not required.

8. Confidentiality and Ethical Standards

The expert must maintain the confidentiality of unpublished research, project documents, and participant information. All contributions must uphold survivor dignity, privacy, informed consent, and the Do No Harm principle. Training examples must avoid disclosing identifying or sensitive information about survivors.