Invitation for Expression of Interest for the Spotlight Initiative 2.0 Civil Society National Reference Group

The CS-NRG shall consist of a maximum of 11 individuals selected through an open selection process ensuring a balanced representation from diverse groups, in accordance with criteria set forth in this expression of interest. In 2025, four members were selected out of the eleven members to the CS-NRG. Members will serve in their personal capacity, with participation in the group being voluntary and without remuneration. However, Spotlight Initiative 2.0 will cover the costs of tasks to be performed by the group members in line with a pre-agreed upon work plan. The Initiative will also provide opportunities for networking and engaging with strategic players on ending SGBV in Liberia and across the region. Individuals who participated in the CS-NRG group during the first generation of Spotlight Initiative (2019-2023) are also eligible to apply if they are interested. The CS-NRG will serve three key functions: Advisory, Advocacy and Partnership, and Accountability and monitoring. The CS-NRG will undertake the following roles and responsibilities during the implementation of Spotlight 2.0: Meaningfully engage with Civil Society and Women's Movements at national, regional and international levels to advise the Spotlight Initiative 2.0, advocate and partner for the realization of the program objectives, hold the Spotlight Initiative 2.0 accountable for its commitments. This engagement does not foresee study tours and visits abroad unless financed by sources other than the Liberia Spotlight Initiative funds. Enhance dialogue, information and guidance on policy, legislation, prevention and response services during the implementation of the Spotlight Initiative 2.0. The CS-NRG is expected to strengthen coherence, partnership and implementation to address all forms of violence against women and girls and harmful practices (HPs). Provide advice on the overall strategic direction of the Spotlight Initiative's County Programme on national policy issues on eliminating VAWG and HPs. Provide advice and insights on current and ongoing interventions and processes to eliminate VAWG and HPs, including the potential for scaling up interventions within and beyond the Spotlight Initiative 2.0 target counties. Engage in high-level advocacy, communication, and dialogue to support the visibility and promotion of the Initiative's goals at the national level. Serve as an interactive platform and open forum for dialogue between the Spotlight Initiative 2.0 and women's rights organizations, the women's movements, and CSOs on eliminating VAWG and HPs. Conduct broad consultations with groups and networks, including at the grassroots levels, to provide updates and solicit feedback on the programme's performance for advocacy, research, learning and action on the prevention of and response to VAWG and harmful practices. Liaise periodically with the global and regional Civil Society Reference Groups to share knowledge and lessons learnt, and develop solutions to common challenges, with a view of supporting the achievement of the Spotlight 2.0 goals. Support in monitoring efforts of Spotlight Initiative 2.0 and advise on the implementation of the programme, including raising risks and proposing mitigation measures.

How to Apply:
Nomination must include the following: Full legal name and address of applying or nominated individuals Curriculum Vitae (CV) or a short biography: A maximum of 4 page, highlighting professional training, work or volunteer experience in gender equality, VAWG, HPs, and collaboration with women's and youth movements Motivation Statement: Up to 1,500 characters explaining your interest, motivation and potential contribution to the CS-NRG along with confirmation of your availability. Applications will be reviewed for placement of short-listed candidates. Short-listed candidates may be invited for an interview for decision-making purposes. Selected candidates will be required to sign a Code of Conduct governing the organization.