International consultant for the study on online risks and harms, digital safety and harms affecting children in Bhutan (Remote with possible travel)

Overview

To generate evidence on children’s engagement with the digital environment in Bhutan, focusing on online risks and digital safety, including from the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI). The study will inform policy, programming, and safeguarding responses.

Key Responsibilities

• Assess children’s access to, use of, and engagement with digital technologies, including social media platforms, online services, and AI-powered tools.
• Examine children’s digital literacy and awareness, including understanding of consent, privacy, data collection, profiling, and risks associated with AI-enabled technologies.
• Identify and analyze the prevalence and nature of technology-facilitated violence (TFV) affecting children.
• Establish a baseline on children’s digital engagement and online risk exposure.
• Assess parents’, caregivers’, and teachers’ digital literacy, awareness, and supervision practices.
• Identify gaps in existing policies, education systems, child protection mechanisms, and service responses.
• Develop practical, actionable, and time-bound recommendations.

Required Experience

A minimum of five (5) years of proven experience conducting national-level research, large-scale surveys, or mixed-methods studies. Demonstrated expertise and experience in child online protection, including knowledge of online risks, digital safety, and child protection or related research areas. Proven experience in designing and implementing mixed-methods research, including quantitative surveys and qualitative methods such as focus group discussions (FGDs) and key informant interviews. Demonstrated capacity to conduct ethical research involving children. Demonstrated capacity to mobilize, engage, and manage local consultants for data collection is required. Proven experience managing field data collection teams and delivering high-quality analytical reports within agreed timelines. Experience working with UN agencies, government institutions, or international organizations (considered an asset).

Qualifications

Masters in Social Sciences, Statistics, Public Policy, Information Technology, or related field.

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