Deadline: 31-Oct-20
OSCE has come up with the call on the impact of artificial intelligence on freedom of expression. In the framework of the #SAIFE project, the OSCE RFoM is looking to fund a limited number of innovative ideas to put a spotlight on AI and freedom of expression.
The Office of the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media (RFoM) is developing the “Spotlight on Artificial Intelligence and Freedom of Expression” #SAIFE project, funded by extra budgetary contributions, to promote a clearer understanding of government, regulators, and internet intermediaries’ policies and practices in their use of artificial intelligence (AI) and other forms of automation, and the impact these have on how citizens access and share information.
The aim of the #SAIFE project is to develop policy recommendations on the most effective ways to safeguard freedom of expression and media pluralism, when deploying AI. In the #SAIFE project, special focus is given to the following areas of concern where technology and freedom of expression intersect: content moderation (especially with regard to security threats or so-called ‘hate speech’), and content curation (specifically the consequences of surveillance and overall impact on media pluralism).
Funded initiatives must support RFoM’s #SAIFE project on the impact of AI on freedom of expression, as well as the overall mandate to safeguard media freedom and freedom of expression across the 57 OSCE participating States.
Within two weeks following the completion of the activities, the selected expert needs to provide a one-page narrative report on the activities completed and the impact achieved. The report should refer to the main objective of the initiative and summarize its performance, focusing on the main achievement and main conclusion. The report should emphasise the initiative’s added value to the RFoM’s work and include horizontal issues such as gender equality. The report can also include recommendations and lessons learned, and should include a financial report reflecting the originally provided budget.
One representative of each initiative that receives funding may be invited to present their results at an RFoM event in 2021. (Should these events not take place online, any potential travel costs will be covered by RFoM and should not be included in the budget). RFoM encourages applications on activities that have a gender-responsive approach that is informed by perspectives of intersectionality.
Funding Information
- Proposals should be in the range of 2,000 – 5,000 EUR.
- Accepted proposals must be completed by 31 January 2021.
Funding Modalities
- RFoM will only fund initiatives, which, in their final form, directly and clearly support the objectives and parameters of the #SAIFE project.
- RFoM reserves the right to amend a proposal in agreement with the applicant before making a commitment to fund it. Final
funding modalities will be decided by RFoM after consideration of the activities and budget that have been submitted, and discussion with the successful applicant. - RFoM may use consultancy contracts or direct payments to a service provider.
What can be Funded?
- Activities could include, but are not limited to: development of tools to counter freedom of expression challenges posed by AI; educational and awareness-raising activities; podcasts; documentaries; mini-series; exhibitions; and storytelling.
Who can Apply?
- Independent experts, journalists, academia, and representatives of civil society.
- RFoM can only contract and pay independent expert(s) / supplier(s) directly, not an organization. Proposed experts/consultants should be nationals of one of the 57 OSCE participating States; and all activities must take place in one or more of the 57 OSCE participating States.
- Applications can be submitted alone or in partnership.
Selection Process
- Initiatives will be selected through a competitive review process. Selection decisions will be final;
- Applicants must demonstrate how their activities address the aims of the #SAIFE project and overall mandate of the RFoM; how they will have impact; and how they integrate gender in their design and implementation;
- Applicants should attach to their application terms of reference for the work to be done, a brief profile for the required person(s), and a financial overview. If these activities also benefit from staff and resources from other funders, these budgets shall be separated and the names of the funded shall be stated;
- Financial and narrative documentation must be complete and clearly demonstrate that the proposed activities have potential for success and replication across the OSCE region, and can be managed within the time frame and budget proposed. Priority will be given
to shorter initiatives that demonstrate sustainability, innovation and value for money; - The application should contain one annex only.
For more information, visit https://www.osce.org/representative-on-freedom-of-media/465663