Wednesday News - Issue 4 2025

Want to be the first to hear? Sign up to the Dóchas Wednesday News here

Dóchas News

(1) Worldview Wave 5 Research Results Launch

The latest Wave 5 Worldview survey results were launched on 21 January revealing public support in Ireland for Overseas Development Aid (ODA) remains high at 73%. Wave 5 also explored how the Irish public responds to images used by Irish INGOs in their various campaigns through several focus group discussions and a survey. The event recording can be found here, the annual attitudes and sentiments towards ODA results here, and the entire imagery research package here.

(2) Vacancy - Head of Policy and Advocacy - 6 February

The Head of Policy & Advocacy role is central to Dóchas’ strategy (2022-2026), with a particular focus on the Influence pillar – combining policy and advocacy expertise and the experience of members with convening power, to exert collective influence. This role is critical to maintain Dóchas’ reputation as an authoritative voice for the sector on key issues, facilitating dialogue and debate in the public domain. The recent changing political environment will accelerate the need to build political support for international development among MEPs, parliamentarians and other key stakeholders. The recruitment campaign for the role of Head of Policy & Advocacy is being managed exclusively on behalf of Dóchas by specialist, not-for-profit sector, recruitment consultancy CCI Executive Search. Find out more here. Closing date: 6 February

(3) Terms of Reference - Shared Island, Shared World, Shared Future: Enhancing cross-border Learning and Connection on Global Citizenship Education - 5 February

Shared Island, Shared World, Shared Future is an initiative between Dóchas, the Irish network for international development and humanitarian organisations, CADA, the Coalition of Aid and Development organisations in Northern Ireland and IDEA, the Irish Development Education Association. Dóchas requires consultant(s) to coordinate and facilitate a series of workshops and events that aims to explore the obstacles/barriers to implementing an all-island vision for GCE due to different systems, policy environments, governance structures, and funding options and foster dialogue on GCE practice (i.e., how GCE can address the challenges facing people living throughout the island and support GCE practitioners). The IDEA CoGP will be the framework in which to create a structured dialogue in these areas. Find out more here. Closing date: 5 February.

(4) Dóchas Leadership Course 2025 - 3 February

Dóchas is delighted to announce dates and invite applications from our members for the second iteration of a leadership initiative in partnership with UCD Innovation Academy. Based on UCD’s successful Professional Diploma in Creativity, Innovation and Leadership, this course is for leaders in the international development and humanitarian sector who want to learn about creative leadership and enabling change in your organisation and beyond. Taking place online, it is accessible to our members across different geographical locations. The programme will be delivered online between April and June 2025 and is open to members only. Spaces are limited to 34 participants. Closing date: 3 February. A recording of the information session that took place is available alongside other details here.

(5) Terms of Reference - Dóchas Board External Assessment 2025 - 10 February

Every three years, Dóchas has agreed to commission an independent external assessment of its Board’s effectiveness. This needs to include an assessment of the current functioning of the Board, as well as evaluate how well it has progressed actions from previous self-assessments. Beyond evaluating governance effectiveness, previous assessments have posed a number of key questions that will need to be explored. In submitting a proposal, the consultant should outline a proposed methodology, timing and cost (including VAT). The assessment needs to be completed by March, 2025, at the latest. Applications are to be submitted by February 10. Find out more information and how to apply here.

Upcoming Events and Conferences

(1) Restore Humanity Campaign – Response to US Global Policies and Funding Cuts: Emergency Meeting for NGOs and Civil Society - 29 January 3 pm

On Monday 20th January 2025, President Donald Trump wasted no time signing Executive Orders that sent shockwaves through the global health community. He announced the US would withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO) and freeze all foreign aid programmes for 90 days. These moves threaten the lives of millions worldwide, leaving individuals, organisations, and governments scrambling to respond to avert a humanitarian catastrophe. We are calling on Irish NGOs, Civil Society Organisations, and the Global Health Community to come together to engage, advocate, campaign, and mitigate this global health and humanitarian crisis. Register for the emergency meeting here.

(2) Concern Worldwide: Multiple events

Art, peace and conflict workshop - 5 February

On 5th February, Concern Worldwide are organising a guided tour of Brian Maguire's exhibition at the Hugh Lane Gallery, Dublin. This will be followed by a World Café Conversation focusing on the themes explored in his art work. This opportunity is open to students in third level institutions studying any course, but will be of particular interest to those studying or interested in peace, conflict, human rights and development. Find out more and register here.

Campaigning 101: Learning to Facilitate - 12-13 February

Want to lead conversations that inspire action? Then Join Concern for a workshop spread over 2 half-days on Wednesday, February 12 2-4.30 and Thursday, February 13th 2-4.30. This in-person workshop is your guide to becoming a confident and effective facilitator. Whether it’s a group discussion or campaign planning meeting, you’ll learn to spark engagement, keep people on track, and create an atmosphere where everyone’s voice matters. Find out more and register here.

(3) Irish Global Health Network: IGHNx2025: Global Health Reimagined - 13 February

The Irish Global Health Network (IGHN), in collaboration with the HSE Global Health Programme, is proud to present IGHNx 2025: Global Health Reimagined, a TEDx-style event on 13th February at The Printworks, Dublin Castle. This unique event merges global health with the arts to explore critical topics, including climate change, mental health, gender-based violence, adolescent reproductive health, and decolonisation. Featuring TED-style talks from inspiring speakers such as Talha AlAli and Easkey Britton, alongside performances in music, poetry, and storytelling, IGHNx bridges data with empathy to make complex issues accessible and impactful. Find out more here.

Upcoming Meetings, Seminars & Workshops

(1) Global Action Plan: Waste Colonialism: A CPD webinar for teachers - 17 February

This free teacher-training workshop will explore the topic of waste through the lens of global citizenship education (GCE). We will explore where our waste ends up and how and why it gets there. We will interrogate the concepts of sustainable consumption and recycling, and suggest actions schools can take to ethically manage their waste. This event will take place online on February 17 from 7-8.30pm. Funded by Irish Aid's WorldWise Global Schools. Find out more and register here.

(2) Irish Network for Education Worldwide: Tools to Negotiate Education Financing in 2025 - 30 January

INEW will host an online seminar "Tools to Negotiate Education Financing in 2025" on Thursday, 30th January, 12.30pm to 2pm. 2025 marks a critical year for securing the financial foundations needed to deliver quality education for all worldwide, with the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development, the launch of negotiations on the UN Tax Convention, and the replenishment of the Global Partnership for Education on the horizon. Marking the International Day of Education celebrated on 24th January, the event will feature global experts introducing these decisive negotiation milestones and discussing key actions to prepare. Find out more and register here.

(3) Irish Development Education Association: Healthy Conflict & Constructive Dialogue Workshop - 11 February

This 2-part training is being provided by the Irish Development Education Association (IDEA) to support educators to successfully engage with polarising views and topics. We will be working with HERMES, a Croatian NGO who developed the ‘Educators’ guide to Depolarisation’. The guide’s theoretical section uncovers the psychology and sociology of polarisation in society and is followed by exercises and activities that build understanding of polarisation and knowledge on how to diffuse or disarm it. The workshop will take place on Tuesday 18 February 10.30 am – 4.00pm and Wednesday 19 February 10.00 am – 3.00pm in the Carmelite Community Centre, 56 Aungier St. Dublin 2. The deadline to register is 11 February. Find out more here.

Vacancies

(1) Trócaire: Vacancies in Ireland and Internationally

Trócaire is currently advertising vacancies for various roles in a number of countries. Find out more and apply here. Various closing dates apply.

(2) Oxfam Ireland: Vacancies in Ireland and Internationally

Oxfam is currently advertising vacancies for various roles in a number of countries. Find out more and apply here. Various closing dates apply.

(3) Concern Worldwide: Vacancies in Ireland and Internationally

Concern Worldwide is currently advertising vacancies for various roles in Ireland and internationally. Find out more and apply here. Various closing dates apply.

(4) GOAL: Vacancies in Ireland and Internationally

GOAL is currently advertising vacancies for various roles in a number of countries. Find out more and apply here. Various closing dates apply.

(5) Irish Red Cross: Vacancies in Ireland and Internationally

The Irish Red Cross is currently advertising vacancies for various roles in a number of countries. Find out more and apply here. Various closing dates apply.

 Volunteer Coordinator and Logistics Officer - Migration Services - 5 February

The Irish Red Cross encompasses a variety of services including the Ukraine Pledge Accommodation programme, IRPP-mandated resettlement and the Gaza Minors Medical Initiative. The IRC is tasked under its mandate to co-ordinate offers of support from the Irish Public, support the placement of refugees into suitable accommodation and support their social integration into communities. Under the direction of the Migration Programmes Management, the post holder will be responsible for liaisoning between the casework team and the volunteers. This role requires coordination between the Volunteers and the Migration team ensuring that all requests for support are channelled appropriately and actioned with the oversight of the relevant caseworkers. Closing date: 5 February. Find more here.

(6) World Vision Ireland: Fundraising Manager - 31 January

World Vision Ireland is seeking a dynamic Fundraising Manager to play a key role in driving the organisation’s growth and sustainability. This important position will be responsible for expanding the donor base and securing a thriving future for the organisation. The successful candidate will have an acute attention to detail and will have exceptional organising skills. This is a fantastic opportunity to join World Vision Ireland at a time of ambitious growth and investment. Find out more here. Closing date: 31 January

(7) Global Action Plan: Education Officer (GCE) - 16 February

The Education Officer designs and delivers Global Citizenship Education (GCE) and environmental education programmes for community groups and schools across Ireland, and works closely with the rest of the Programmes team to deliver the activities and services that support Global Action Plan's goals. Closing date: 16 February. Find out more here.

(8) UNICEF: Advocacy Manager - 19 February 

An exciting role at UNICEF Ireland, the Advocacy Manager will support and expand UNICEF Ireland’s youth participation and policy work. The successful candidate will be an advocate for children’s rights, demonstrating a strong commitment to the UNCRC. Reporting to the Head of Advocacy and Public Policy, the successful candidate will play a pivotal role in coordinating youth engagement initiatives and thematic advocacy efforts aligned with UNICEF’s global priorities. Closing date: 19th February. Find out more here.

(9) Irish Rule of Law International: Deputy Country Director, Malawi - 14 February

Irish Rule of Law International is currently hiring for a Deputy Country Director to join a dynamic team in Lilongwe, Malawi. This role offers the chance to make a real impact by strengthening the rule of law, enhancing access to justice, and advocating for human rights. This includes leading on strategy, organisational development, and funding diversification, collaborating with local institutions to build capacity and advocate for justice reform, and managing programmes addressing vulnerable populations, including child diversion initiatives. Closing date: 14 February. Expected start date is March 2025. Find out more here.

(10) Front Line Defenders (FLD): Safeguarding Consultancy -  7 February

Front Line Defenders is seeking a consultant to support our Safeguarding work. The consultancy will support the review and updating of the organisation policy, co-development of training and materials for staff, and support the delivery of training. This work will be carried primarily in Feb/March/April and at agreed dates late in the year. Interested consultants should send a two-page letter/overview note to omoore@frontlinedefenders.org. Closing date: Friday 7th Feb. Find more information here.

(11) Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS): Project and Outreach Support Worker - 31 January

The Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) is an international NGO with a mission is to accompany, to serve and to
advocate the cause of refugees and forcibly displaced persons. The Projects and Outreach Support Worker role is a full-time role based in Galway. Travel throughout Ireland required. Initial contract is for 24 months. Competitive Salary Package (commensurate with experience). Application pack available, by request, from info@jrs.ie. CVs / Cover Letters not accepted. JRS Ireland is an equal opportunities employer. Closing date: 31 January

(12) Médecins Sans Frontières: Supporter Services Assistant - 2 February 

The Supporter Services Assistant is an essential member of the fundraising team supporting MSF’s Fundraising strategy to ensure all donation processing and fundraising support is provided to ensure excellent delivery of supporter care. This important role will be the first point of contact with many donors, improving on donor experience, managing the administration of the donation process,s and creating supporter care content and materials. The successful candidate will have excellent interpersonal skills, administrative experience, and the ability to work supportively and effectively within and across teams. Find out more here. Closing date: 2 February

(13) UCD: Ad Astra Fellow - Assistant Professor in Environmental Politics - 21 February

UCD School of Politics and International Relations is seeking to appoint a political scientist with a focus on environmental politics, broadly understood. The Ad Astra Fellow will be expected to teach undergraduate and graduate modules on topics including environmental politics, climate crisis, and international climate governance, contributing to the MSc in Sustainable Development, Masters in Public Policy, BSc in Sustainability, and related. In pursuit of its commitment to equality, diversity and inclusiveness, SPIRe especially welcomes applications from women, minorities, and across the globe. Closing date: 21 February. Find out more here.

Calls for Tender

(1) Concern Worldwide: Global Citizenship Programme Evaluation and Review 2025 - 30 January

Concern is seeking a consultant to evaluate this programme and provide guidance to continually strengthen Concern’s GC work. The programme is guided by the GCE strategy which was developed in 2023. The purpose of Concern’s Global Citizenship work is to engage with a diverse range of communities across the Island of Ireland to develop their understanding of the root causes of global challenges and support them to participate in personal and collective action to contribute to a better world for all. Find out more here. Closing date: 30 January

(2) Edmund Rice Development: Consultant to support Disability Inclusion and Mainstreaming project - 17 February

Edmund Rice Mission is seeking a consultant to support a Disability Inclusion and Mainstreaming project who will need to deliver a report on Disability Inclusion and Mainstreaming in ER Mission, a guide to Disability Inclusion and Mainstreaming for ER development projects, and a Disability Inclusion and Mainstreaming Training programme. Find out more here. Closing date for submissions is Monday 17 February.

Internships

(1) Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders (MSF): Major Gifts Intern - 31 January

This is a great opportunity to be part of an experienced fundraising team and gain insights into relationship fundraising, the work of MSF and current topics in the humanitarian sector. During the internship with MSF, you will have access to relevant in-house training and development opportunities. Most importantly, as a member of the fundraising team, the work will contribute to the achievement of MSF’s objectives in Ireland, and support MSF’s work around the world. Find out more here. Closing date: 31 January

Courses and Training

(1)  Emergency Logistics Team: Multiple events 

Introductory Cert in Procurement & Logistics- Humanitarian Context Endorsed by CILT International as a recognized CPD programme - 13 February

This is an intensive 4-day course that introduces participants to the key areas of the Supply Chain in a Humanitarian and/or Emergency response context. The scenarios discussed during the four days are all based on real events that have occurred in Iraq, Syria, Yemen, Ukraine, South Sudan and elsewhere. Find out more here. Registration deadline is 13 February

Introduction to Protection & Safeguarding in Logistics Principles - 23 February

This course was specifically developed to introduce participants to the Protection Principles within Logistics and expand their understanding of a humanitarian logistics response from a Protection & Safeguarding perspective and brings the expertise of many individuals who have worked on numerous humanitarian emergencies. Find out more information here. Registration deadline 23 February

(2) STAND: Global Issues Courses - 10 February

Global Issues courses, starting in February, are certified courses for students to deepen their understanding of social justice issues through a series of 6 online evening sessions with expert facilitators. A final in-person session brings the course to a celebratory close. Each workshop is a gateway to a deeper understanding of social justice issues, exploring their impact on both local and global scales. All students, no matter their major, are invited to join in. No need to be a social justice expert, everyone's welcome. Upon completion, participants will receive a Certificate of Completion from STAND. Find out more here.

Other News

ICVA: Statement on the 90-day Suspension Orders of US foreign aid

ICVA, the global NGO network for principle and effective humanitarian action, has issued a statement on the 90-day suspension orders of US foreign aid. The statement reads that 90-day suspension of US foreign aid disproportionately affects the world’s most vulnerable communities while hampering the efforts of international and local NGOs working to sustain lives. The statement concludes that the 90-day suspension of USAID funding is not just a retreat from global responsibility; it undermines the ability of NGOs to save lives. The ICVA Secretariat is actively consulting with its members to assess the implications of these changes and to develop strategies that advocate for sustained humanitarian assistance, promote localisation, and strengthen partnerships to ensure vulnerable communities continue to receive critical support. Read the full statement here

Email submissions to the Wednesday News here

Dóchas Wednesday News Editorial Policy