The Ethiopian Media Council is seeking an expert consultant or team of consultants to design and produce a comprehensive, practical Training Manual for journalists, media managers, and civil society actors.

Terms of Reference (TOR) 1. Background and Context In a vibrant civic space, a free, independent, and professional media sector serves as a cornerstone of democracy, accountability, and public discourse. However, journalists and media organizations increasingly face complex challenges, ranging from legal and regulatory pressures to digital threats and polarizing political environments. To safeguard the independence of the press, it is critical to strengthen internal standards through Media Self-Regulation and foster defensive networks through Professional Solidarity. This initiative aims to commission an expert consultant (or team of consultants) to design and produce a comprehensive, practical Training Manual that equips journalists, media managers, and civil society actors with the tools necessary to navigate these challenges safely and professionally. 2. Objectives of the Assignment The primary objective is to develop a high-quality, practical, and context-sensitive Training Manual. The manual will serve as a foundational tool to: Deepen understanding of Freedom of the Press frameworks, international standards, and constitutional protections within civic spaces. Operationalize Media Self-Regulation, including code of ethics implementation, independent press councils, and internal accountability mechanisms. Cultivate Professional Solidarity to establish mutual support networks, safety protocols, and collaborative defense mechanisms against legal, physical, and digital attacks. 3. Scope of Work The consultant(s) will be responsible for the following tasks: Phase I: Inception & Desk Review Conduct a desk review of international best practices, existing regional media guidelines, local legal frameworks, and gaps in current media training resources. Engage with key stakeholders (e.g., journalist associations, media councils, human rights defenders) to map out priority training needs. Submit a brief Inception Report outlining the manual’s structure, methodology, and wo