DW Akademie Seeks Experts to Develop Arabic Disinformation Toolkit for Syrian Civil Society
DW Akademie, Germany’s leading organization for international media development, has issued a call for two experienced consultants to collaborate on the creation of a vital resource in the fight against disinformation in Syria. The project, titled “Change the Playing Field – Resilient Against Disinformation,” aims to bolster the capacity of Syrian civil society organizations (CSOs) and journalists to counter the spread of false and misleading information, particularly among vulnerable populations such as youth and women. This initiative recognizes the critical need for accurate information and media literacy in a context marked by conflict, displacement, and the proliferation of online propaganda. The resulting toolkit will be a practical, hands-on guide published in Arabic, providing tangible strategies and tools to navigate the complex information landscape.
The consultants selected for this project will play a crucial role in shaping the toolkit’s content and ensuring its relevance to the specific challenges faced by Syrian communities. Drawing upon the findings of a recent interdisciplinary study, the toolkit will incorporate the latest research and best practices in disinformation analysis and countermeasures. The consultants will be responsible for translating these findings into accessible and actionable resources, including practical exercises, case studies, and real-world examples. This hands-on approach will empower Syrian CSOs and journalists to effectively identify, analyze, and respond to disinformation campaigns, ultimately contributing to a more resilient and informed society.
A core component of the toolkit will be Media and Information Literacy (MIL), a crucial skill set in today’s digital age. Recognizing the pervasive nature of online disinformation, the toolkit will equip users with the critical thinking skills necessary to evaluate information sources, identify manipulative tactics, and distinguish between credible news and fabricated content. By fostering MIL competencies, the project aims to empower Syrian communities to become more discerning consumers of information, less susceptible to manipulation, and more capable of engaging in informed public discourse. This focus on MIL aligns with DW Akademie’s broader mission of promoting free and independent media, fostering critical thinking, and strengthening democratic values.
The “Change the Playing Field” project emphasizes the importance of empowering local actors to combat disinformation within their own communities. By partnering with Syrian CSOs and journalists, the project recognizes their vital role in disseminating accurate information, fostering media literacy, and building resilience against manipulative narratives. The toolkit will serve as a central instrument for knowledge transfer and capacity building, providing these key actors with the resources they need to effectively counter disinformation and promote informed decision-making. This localized approach ensures that the toolkit’s content is culturally sensitive, contextually relevant, and tailored to the specific needs of the Syrian population.
The emphasis on youth and women reflects the project’s commitment to reaching vulnerable groups who are often disproportionately targeted by disinformation campaigns. By equipping young people and women with the skills and knowledge to navigate the complex information landscape, the project aims to empower them to become active agents of change within their communities. This focus on inclusivity and empowerment aligns with DW Akademie’s broader commitment to promoting human rights, gender equality, and youth participation in democratic processes.
Interested consultants with relevant expertise in disinformation analysis, media literacy, capacity building, and the Syrian context are encouraged to apply. The deadline for applications is July 31, 2025. The complete call for applications, including detailed information about the project, required qualifications, and application procedures, can be found in the downloads section of DW Akademie’s website. This project presents a unique opportunity to contribute to a vital initiative aimed at strengthening resilience against disinformation in a challenging and complex environment. The selected consultants will play a critical role in empowering Syrian CSOs and journalists to become effective champions of accurate information and informed public discourse.