Media Council of Malawi
Position: Media Monitors
Contract Duration: 3 months
Duty Station: Regional
1. Background
The Media Council of Malawi (MCM) is committed to enhancing the ethical standards of journalism and ensuring fair and accurate media coverage during elections. In light of the upcoming elections, MCM seeks to recruit Temporary Media Monitors to observe, evaluate, and report on media practices related to election coverage.
2. Purpose of the Role
The primary purpose of the Temporary Media Monitors is to assess the media landscape during the electoral process, ensuring that coverage is balanced, factual, and adheres to ethical standards. Monitors will track various media outlets’ performance, highlighting compliance with established guidelines while identifying areas for improvement.
3. Duration of Engagement
The Temporary Media Monitors will be engaged for a defined period surrounding the elections, including the pre-election, election day, and post-election periods. The exact dates will be communicated upon the selection of candidates.
4. Responsibilities
Specific responsibilities of the Media Monitors include, but are not limited to:
1) Systematically review print, broadcast, and online media about the elections.
2) Document media coverage of political parties, candidates, and electoral issues, assessing fairness and representation.
3) Evaluate adherence to the Media Council’s election coverage guidelines and any legal frameworks governing media conduct.
4) Identify instances of misinformation, biased reporting, and lack of representation.
5) Compile daily, weekly, or bi-weekly reports summarizing findings and observations, including examples of best practices and areas of concern.
6) Provide recommendations for improvement where necessary.
7) Serve as a resource for media outlets seeking guidance on ethical reporting during elections.
8) Attend and participate in evaluation meetings to discuss overall monitoring efforts and share insights with the Media Council team.
5. Qualifications and Skills
The ideal candidates for the Temporary Media Monitors should possess the following qualifications and skills:
1) A degree or diploma in journalism, communications, or a related field.
2) Demonstrable understanding of media ethics, electoral processes, and responsible journalism.
3) Strong analytical and observational skills, with the ability to objectively assess media content.
4) Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English and one local language.
5) Previous experience in media monitoring or journalism is an advantage.
6. Reporting Structure
The Media Monitors will report directly to the Monitoring and Evaluation Officer. Regular check-ins will be conducted to ensure that monitors are supported throughout the engagement.
7. Compensation and Benefits
Monitors will receive a stipend for their engagement, with exact amounts specified in individual contracts, commensurate with their experience and responsibilities. Further details concerning logistics, including travel allowances, will be provided upon engagement.
8. Code of Conduct
All Media Monitors will be required to adhere to a specified Code of Conduct to ensure professionalism, confidentiality, and impartiality during their engagement.
Method Of Application
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews. Interested candidates should submit their application letter, CV, and copies of relevant qualifications before the 24th of May 2025 to:
The Executive Director
Media Council of Malawi
Area 6 – Lilongwe, Off M1, Lilongwe – Kasungu Road, Chimutu Street
Plot Number 6/289A
P.O Box 30463, Lilongwe 3.
Or Email to: [email protected]
Please note: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews. The Media Council of Malawi is an equal-opportunity employer and encourages applications from all qualified individuals.
Join us in promoting ethical journalism and a vibrant media landscape in Malawi!