Call for Applications: Monitoring and Evaluation Consultant for IPI's Turkey Program (2024-2027)
Independent consultant sought to assess FoI trainings, mentorship, and legal advisory activities in Turkey.
1Consultancy Opportunity Overview
The International Press Institute (IPI) is seeking an independent Monitoring and Evaluation Consultant for its Turkey Program running from 2024 to 2027. The consultant will evaluate three key initiatives: Freedom of Information trainings, a Mentor-Mentee Program focused on FOI-based journalism, and Legal Advisory Board activities. This paid consultancy requires delivering a final report and conducting feedback sessions with IPI's team. Applications must be submitted by September 22, 2026.
2Program Components to Evaluate
The consultant will assess the effectiveness of IPI's Freedom of Information training programs that empower journalists with right-to-information tools. They'll also monitor the Mentor-Mentee Program pairing experienced journalists with newcomers on FOI-based reporting. Additionally, they'll evaluate the Legal Advisory Board's support for journalists facing information access challenges. All activities aim to strengthen investigative journalism in Turkey through improved access to public information.
3Consultancy Timeline and Deliverables
The monitoring period runs from November 1, 2026, to February 28, 2027. Key deliverables include a comprehensive evaluation report analyzing program impacts and recommendations for improvement. The consultant must present findings to IPI's team in a feedback session. This short-term engagement offers professionals a chance to contribute to media development while gaining international program evaluation experience.
4Application Requirements
Candidates must submit their applications to [email protected] by September 22, 2026. The ideal applicant should demonstrate expertise in program evaluation, particularly in media development or human rights contexts. Experience with Freedom of Information mechanisms and Turkish media landscape is valuable. The selection will consider both methodological rigor and understanding of Turkey's unique media freedom challenges.
5IPI's Turkey Program Context
IPI's Turkey initiative addresses shrinking press freedom and increasing obstacles to information access. Since 2019, Turkey has ranked among countries with the most jailed journalists worldwide. The program builds on IPI's global network of editors and media executives advocating for independent journalism. Previous evaluations have helped refine strategies for supporting journalists under pressure.
6Mentor-Mentee Program Focus
This innovative component pairs seasoned investigative journalists with early-career reporters for six-month collaborations. Mentors provide guidance on filing effective information requests and overcoming bureaucratic hurdles. Past participants have broken stories on municipal corruption and environmental violations using FOI requests. The consultant will assess knowledge transfer effectiveness and practical outcomes.
7Legal Advisory Board Impact
The consultant will evaluate how effectively the legal team supports journalists facing information denials or lawsuits. In 2025, Turkish authorities rejected 43% of journalist information requests. The board provides pro bono representation and strategic litigation support. Their work has established several precedents expanding information access, though implementation remains inconsistent across institutions.
8Program Significance
This evaluation comes at a critical juncture for press freedom in Turkey. As the country approaches 2028 elections, access to reliable information grows more vital. The consultant's findings will inform IPI's strategy for supporting journalists amid evolving challenges. Successful applicants will contribute to strengthening accountability journalism when it's needed most, with potential regional implications for press freedom methodologies.