The Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative (CHRI)’s Access to Information (ATI) Programme is seeking to recruit researchers for a short-term project (16 June-15 December 2021) to document the manner of use and the implementation of right to information (RTI) laws in South Asian countries during the COVID-19 pandemic (March 2020 onwards).

Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative (CHRI) is an independent, non-partisan, non-government organisation based in New Delhi, and works for the practical realisation of human rights across the Commonwealth.  Further information about CHRI and the Access to information Programme can be accessed at CHRI’s website: www.humanrightsinitiative.org

Position: Research Consultant (South Asia)

Task Description

Responsibilities include researching the status of implementation of RTI laws in South Asian countries which have implemented RTI laws; the manner of use of RTI by citizens, civil society groups and media persons; role of Information Commissions (the Information Commissioner in the Maldives) in promoting transparency of governmental action while dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic; assisting Programme personnel to organize webinars of RTI experts from across S. Asia; rapporteuring at such webinars; drafting reports of the webinar proceedings; liaising with in-country subject experts to collect research papers, information, data and examples of best practices with regard to the use and implementation of RTI laws during the pandemic; and compiling write-ups based on the research for dissemination through CHRI’s website and mass media and social media outlets.

Ideal Qualifications:

• Postgraduate or research degree in law or social sciences
• Basic knowledge of the provisions of the RTI laws enacted across South Asia
• High level of competence in research and analytical skills
• High level of competence in articulation (verbal and writing) in English and Hindi/Bangla
• Experience of organizing seminars, conferences and webinars
• Proven ability to work independently with a high degree of initiative and creativity, and adherence to timelines
• Excellent computer skills, including word processing, email and internet research and
• Self-motivated with a strong sense of commitment to work and requiring minimal supervision.

The Research Consultant will report to the Programme Head of CHRI’s Access to Information Programme and be required to work from home until such time as restrictions imposed on travel are lifted.

Remuneration will be commensurate with knowledge and experience levels.

Interested candidates should apply with

• 1 page covering letter explaining why you think you are suitable for the job
• Your detailed résumé,
• Two writing samples indicative of your research, analysis and writing skills (no more than 5-6 pages) and
• Contact details of two references, who can vouch for your professional competence

The deadline for applications is May 31, 2021.

Applications should be sent only by email to CHRI at vinu@humanrightsinitiative.org. Please ensure that you send all essential documents mentioned above. Please mention the position which you are applying for in the subject line of your email.