Application Guide

How to Apply for TOR - Final external evaluation of the “Strengthening the sustainability of an independent, free and pluralist media ecosystem in Ukraine” project

at Reporters sans Frontières

🏢 About Reporters sans Frontières

Reporters sans frontières (RSF) is a globally recognized leader in defending press freedom and protecting journalists. Working at RSF means contributing to high-impact advocacy and on-the-ground support in some of the most challenging environments for media freedom. This evaluation role offers a unique opportunity to directly influence RSF's future programming in Ukraine, a country where independent media is under severe threat.

About This Role

This role involves leading the final external evaluation of a critical media sustainability project in Ukraine, assessing its relevance, effectiveness, and impact. The findings will shape RSF's future strategies and inform donors like the EU. Your work will directly support the resilience of independent Ukrainian media amidst war and political pressure.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve virtual meetings with Ukrainian media partners to gather feedback, followed by analyzing project data and drafting evaluation findings. You could spend time translating interview transcripts, coordinating with RSF's Kyiv office, and preparing interim reports for the donor. The work is remote but requires flexible hours to accommodate time zones and stakeholder availability.

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🎯 Who Reporters sans Frontières Is Looking For

  • Experienced evaluator with a track record of evaluating EU-funded projects in crisis contexts, preferably in Ukraine or similar environments.
  • Deep understanding of the Ukrainian media ecosystem, including challenges related to disinformation, safety, and financial sustainability.
  • Proficient in both English and Ukrainian (French is a plus) with strong report-writing skills in English.
  • Skilled in participatory and gender-responsive evaluation methods, able to engage diverse stakeholders including journalists, media managers, and civil society.

📝 Tips for Applying to Reporters sans Frontières

1

Tailor your CV to highlight specific evaluation projects in Eastern Europe or conflict zones, especially those involving media or press freedom.

2

In your cover letter, explicitly mention your familiarity with EU evaluation frameworks (e.g., DAC criteria) and how you've applied them.

3

Provide examples of how you integrated gender and human rights perspectives into past evaluations.

4

Include a writing sample of an evaluation report you authored, ideally in English and related to media or governance.

5

Demonstrate knowledge of RSF's recent work in Ukraine by referencing specific reports or campaigns (e.g., RSF's Ukraine press freedom barometer).

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your expertise in evaluating media projects in crisis contexts, with concrete examples from Ukraine or similar environments.', 'Your ability to conduct participatory evaluations that include vulnerable groups, such as female journalists or those in conflict zones.', 'Your fluency in Ukrainian and understanding of the local media landscape, including legal and safety challenges.', "How your evaluation approach aligns with RSF's mission to strengthen independent media and defend journalists' rights."]

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review RSF's 2024 World Press Freedom Index and Ukraine country report to understand the current threats to media.
  • → Read RSF's project proposal for this specific initiative (if available) or similar past projects to grasp the intended outcomes.
  • → Study the EU's evaluation guidelines for external actions (e.g., ROM system) to align your methodology with donor requirements.
  • → Familiarize yourself with key Ukrainian media outlets and organizations RSF partners with, such as Internews Ukraine or the Institute of Mass Information.
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💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe a time you evaluated a project in a conflict-affected area; how did you ensure safety and data reliability?
2 How would you assess the sustainability of media projects in Ukraine given the ongoing war and potential donor fatigue?
3 What evaluation methods would you use to capture the impact on gender equality and media pluralism?
4 How do you handle conflicting stakeholder expectations, especially between local media partners and international donors?
5 What do you know about RSF's current projects in Ukraine and how does this evaluation fit into their broader strategy?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting a generic evaluation proposal without referencing the Ukrainian context or RSF's specific approach.
  • Overlooking the gender-responsive evaluation requirement; failing to mention how you integrate gender analysis.
  • Not demonstrating fluency in Ukrainian; even if English is primary, the role requires direct communication with local stakeholders.

📅 Application Timeline

⏰ Deadline: June 1, 2026

We recommend applying at least a few days early to avoid last-minute technical issues.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Reporters sans Frontières!

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