Submission of proposals are invited from youth researchers. Restless Development, in collaboration with Democracy Moves, has been awarded a grant of 7,500 Euros as part of the Porticus Learning Partnership. The grant aims to support youth-led action research in the areas of Democratic Governance and Civic Engagement. Over the next 18 months, three small-scale sub-grants of 2,500 Euros each will be awarded, with two grants to be allocated in Year 1 implementation and one grant in Year 2.

The youth researcher will play a key role in conducting action research and generating youth-led insights on a specific topic related to civic engagement or democratic governance. The research should aim to create new findings and recommendations that can be utilized for advocacy and driving positive change to create new pathways for achieving more just, sustainable and democratic futures. Additionally, the researcher will contribute to the development of insights for donors and partners on how to effectively support youth-led research and facilitate change.

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Research Themes

The following research themes have been identified based on consultations with the Democracy Moves network, learning questions developed with Porticus, and the potential to scale up the research as part of other funded initiatives:

• Intergenerational alliances for countering the rise of authoritarianism
• Organizing to counter democratic backsliding
• Political participation of young people – influence and impact beyond elections
• Intersectional youth movements – effective support, gaps, and impactful initiatives
• Local threats and opportunities related to digital technologies
• Impact (positive/negative) of new media technologies

Responsibilities of Restless Development

The selected youth researcher will be expected to:

• Participate in three onboarding/training sessions to finalize the research approach and design.
• Attend a safeguarding and security briefing to ensure the well-being of all involved.
• Commit to a weekly 30-minute check-in call to report progress, receive support, and seek guidance.
• Deliver a comprehensive research report/write-up that includes a brief literature review, methodology, findings, analysis and recommendations.
• Engage in an evaluation and learning debrief session with the research working group.
• Participate in events, in collaboration with Porticus and wider networks, to formally present the research findings.

Benefits from Restless Development

The selected youth researcher will have the opportunity to:

• Connect with the Democracy Moves Scholars Network for mentorship and support on action research approaches.
• Establish informal networking and sharing spaces to gain additional insights and support from fellow researchers.
• Receive support from Restless Development and Democracy Moves throughout the research process.

Eligibility of Restless Development

• Open to youth researchers supporting youth-led action research in the areas of Democratic Governance and Civic Engagement.
• Proposals should address or connect with one of the main themes.

Selection Criteria of Restless Development

Proposals will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

• Relevance: Alignment with the identified research themes and objectives.
• Clarity: Clear articulation of the research question(s), objectives, and methodology.
• Feasibility: Demonstrated feasibility

Application

Interested individuals are invited to submit an expression of interest & research proposal that addresses or connects with one of the main themes highlighted above. The proposal should include the following information:

• Personal details: Name, age, contact information, and relevant background/experience.
• Proposed research topic: Clearly state the chosen research theme and provide a brief overview of the proposed research question(s) and objectives.
• Methodology: Outline the research approach, methods, and data collection techniques that will be employed.
• Timeline: Provide an estimated timeline for the research, including key milestones and deliverables.
• Impact and potential recommendations: Describe the anticipated impact of the research and how the findings could be used for advocacy and change.
• Ethical considerations: Explain how ethical standards and safeguarding measures will be addressed during the research process.
• Note: The research proposal should not exceed 4 pages and must be submitted by 16 July 2023.

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Lastly, It is important to visit the official website link found below to access the application form.

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