Are you deeply committed to the protection of human rights and the empowerment of human rights defenders worldwide? Do you possess a strong background in evaluation, particularly within international contexts? If so, a prestigious consultancy opportunity awaits with the International Service for Human Rights (ISHR). This role offers the chance to contribute significantly to global human rights advocacy and development by conducting an external evaluation of a flagship training initiative—HRDAP.

About ISHR

The International Service for Human Rights (ISHR) stands as a leading independent non-governmental organization, renowned for its dedication to promoting and protecting human rights across the globe. Through empowering human rights defenders (HRDs), strengthening international human rights frameworks, and championing collective advocacy efforts, ISHR remains at the forefront of global change.

Introducing HRDAP: A Flagship Training Programme

For over a decade, the Human Rights Defenders Advocacy Programme (HRDAP) has served as a pivotal capacity-building initiative designed specifically for human rights defenders. This dynamic programme is geared towards enhancing the knowledge, skills, and international engagement capabilities of HRDs, particularly in navigating the mechanisms of the United Nations human rights system.

Since its inception, HRDAP has supported and trained more than 200 HRDs from diverse regions and backgrounds. These defenders work across thematic areas such as women’s rights, LGBTQI+ equality, racial justice, Indigenous community advocacy, environmental protection, and corporate accountability. The programme’s hybrid model—which combines two months of interactive online learning with a 10-day intensive in-person training session in Geneva—makes it uniquely effective and accessible.

Participants receive individualized support and coaching from ISHR’s expert staff, ensuring tailored guidance based on each defender’s thematic or regional focus. The programme is a collective organizational effort, overseen by ISHR’s Training and Advocacy Manager and supported by multiple team members.

To learn more about past programme editions, including 2024, visit HRDAP 2024.

Purpose of the Evaluation

ISHR now seeks to engage one or more experienced, independent consultants to undertake a comprehensive evaluation of HRDAP. The overarching goal of this consultancy is to assess the programme’s relevance, effectiveness (including impact), efficiency, and long-term sustainability. The findings will be critical in shaping ISHR’s future strategic planning and in enhancing the structure and delivery of HRDAP.

Despite its longstanding success, HRDAP has yet to undergo a dedicated external evaluation. As such, this consultancy represents a timely and valuable opportunity to document lessons learned, refine the programme’s design, and ensure it continues to meet the evolving needs of HRDs operating in increasingly complex environments.

Key Evaluation Objectives

The evaluation will focus on the following core objectives:

• Analyze the impact and effectiveness of HRDAP over the past six years, especially regarding participants’ advocacy work post-training.
• Assess the programme’s added value in comparison to similar international training initiatives.
• Identify unexpected outcomes (positive or negative) stemming from HRDAP.
• Evaluate how the programme has adapted to changing external factors (e.g., the COVID-19 pandemic, digital transformation) and internal organizational changes.
• Review the financial and internal management structures supporting HRDAP.
• Offer strategic recommendations for enhancing programme delivery, scaling its impact, and ensuring long-term sustainability.

Methodology and Scope of Work

The selected consultant(s) will be expected to perform the following tasks:

• Conduct a thorough review of programme materials, including ISHR’s e-learning platform (Academy), training evaluations, monitoring reports, and strategic plans.
• Interview at least 8 former HRDAP participants, complemented by insights from past years’ interviews and evaluations.
• Engage with at least 7 key stakeholders, including ISHR staff, donors, and partners, through interviews or surveys.
• Observe selected online and/or in-person training sessions, where feasible.
• Benchmark HRDAP against one or two comparable international training programmes.
• Deliver a comprehensive evaluation report and oral presentations.

Timeline and Budget

The evaluation will take place between May and July 2025, with final deliverables due by 31 August 2025. While the total number of working days is estimated between 20 and 25, the consultancy is not full-time.

The maximum budget allocated for this project is USD 11,000, and the proposal must include a detailed cost breakdown, including daily or hourly rates and any anticipated expenses.

Expected Deliverables

• Evaluation work plan
• One oral presentation of preliminary findings to ISHR’s Director Group (virtual or in-person)
• One oral workshop or presentation to ISHR staff during their strategic retreat
• Summary of interviews and evaluation notes
• Final evaluation report (10–15 pages excluding annexes) in clear, accessible English, including a 2–3 page Executive Summary

Consultant Profile: Who Should Apply?

To be considered for this role, applicants should meet the following qualifications:

Minimum Requirements:

• A Bachelor’s degree in education, human rights, political science, international relations, social sciences, or a related field
• Proven experience in conducting evaluations, especially for international advocacy or training programmes
• Strong command of both qualitative and quantitative monitoring and evaluation methodologies
• Excellent communication, facilitation, and intercultural skills
• Proficiency in virtual communication tools (e.g., Zoom, MS Teams)

Desirable Qualifications:

• Familiarity with the United Nations human rights system
• Experience as a Trainer of Trainers (ToT)
• Background as a human rights defender

Applicants must ensure there are no perceived or actual conflicts of interest and must adhere to the timeline. The evaluator should be capable of earning the trust of stakeholders and participants.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their applications, All application documents must be in PDF format and include the following:

• CV
• Cover Letter
• A brief work plan (max 3 pages) outlining:
  • Proposed evaluation approach
  • Data collection and analysis methodology
• Examples or links to similar evaluations conducted
• Two references
• Detailed cost proposal (USD) for 20–25 working days

Apply here
Read the complete Terms of Reference here

Important Note: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the hiring body for this consultancy. Kindly direct all inquiries to the hiring organization. Applications sent to GSO will not be processed. Due to high volumes of communication, responses may not be guaranteed. Thank you for your understanding.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who can apply for this consultancy?
Experienced evaluators with a background in human rights, social sciences, or international development are encouraged to apply. Applicants must have a strong grasp of evaluation methodologies and intercultural communication.

2. What is the purpose of the evaluation?
The evaluation aims to assess the effectiveness, relevance, and sustainability of the HRDAP programme and to provide recommendations for its future development.

3. Is travel required for this role?
The consultancy is primarily remote. However, there may be an opportunity to attend an in-person training session in Geneva.

4. How many working days are expected?
The consultant will work approximately 20–25 days over a period of 3–4 months. The contract does not require full-time commitment.

5. What is the compensation for this consultancy?
The maximum available budget is USD 11,000. Proposals should include a detailed breakdown of fees and expenses.

6. What should be included in the application?
Applicants should submit a CV