Title of Assignment: Project Coordinator

Name of unit/sector: Traditional Knowledge Division, Global Challenges and Partnerships Sector

Place of Assignment: Geneva, Switzerland

Expected places of travel (if applicable): N/A

Expected duration of assignment: March 20, 2023 to November 30, 2023

1. Background and objective of the assignment

Background

The use of traditional knowledge and traditional cultural expressions in fashion is a matter of discussion and concern among Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IPLCs).  There is an absence of legally binding norms at the international level, as well as soft law options such as voluntary codes of conduct and best practices within the fashion industry.  Brand owners generally are increasingly conscious of the need to be more diverse, inclusive and sustainable, and empowered consumers increasingly demand authenticity and equity.  In this context, the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) proposes to conduct some activities related to fashion and IPLCs.  These activities might include an opportunity for industry and IPLCs to actively participate together in shaping fair and equitable interaction, and for WIPO to help in facilitating fair and equitable business in support of the rights and interests of IPLCs.
Following the success of the 2021-2022 WIPO Photography Prize for Indigenous Peoples and Local Community Youth (the Photography Prize), WIPO will organize a new edition of the Photography Prize in 2023.  Through the Photography Prize, WIPO aims to celebrate and make widely known the creativity of young members of indigenous peoples and local communities, as well as raise awareness among them on how copyright can be used by them to protect the creativity expressed in their photographs.

Objective of the assignment

The objective of the assignment is to assist with the coordination of activities involving indigenous peoples and the fashion industry, as well as the coordination of the 2023 Photography Prize.

2. Deliverables/services

In the context of the background and objectives described above, the Contractor is required to:
(a) Research, identify, propose and liaise with potential key indigenous participants to the indigenous peoples and fashion industry activities and brief them as needed;
(b) Help conduct research and prepare, update and edit reports, studies, briefing notes, questionnaires and other materials related to fashion and indigenous peoples;
(c) Assist with the dissemination of the Photography Prize call for submissions and reception and processing of submissions, provide support, as needed, to the Photography Prize Advisory Board and appointed judges;
(d) Assist with the planning, coordination and organization of activities, including meetings, related to fashion and indigenous peoples and to the Photography Prize;
(e) Provide additional support, as appropriate and needed.

3. Reporting

The Contractor shall report to Mr. Wend Wendland, Director, Traditional Knowledge Division or his delegate.

4. Profile (e.g. area of specialization/expertise, specific knowledge/skills/experience)

The Contractor should have:
(a) A university degree in law, anthropology, sociology, public relations, communications, development, political science, business administration or a related discipline;
(b) Project management experience or skills as well as experience in dealing with complex projects within tight deadlines;
(c) At least three years’ professional experience;
(d) Good research and writing skills;
(e) Excellent analytical and organizational skills;
(f) Excellent communication, facilitation, stakeholder management and interpersonal skills and the ability to work in a multi-cultural environment;
(g) Excellent knowledge of written and spoken English.  Knowledge of another United Nations official language would be desirable;
(h) Experience working with indigenous peoples and local communities; and
(i) Relevant IT skills.

5. Duration of contract and payment

(a) Duration:
The duration of the Contract shall be from March 20, 2022 to November 30, 2023, on an 80% working time basis.

(b) Payment for the Services:
The Contractor shall indicate their desired daily rate in Swiss francs.

6. Confidentiality

The Service Provider shall not disclose or discuss this assignment with any third party other than as envisaged in the present terms of reference, except as may otherwise be authorized by WIPO in writing.