Consultancy for Copy-editing of Briefing Paper on ASEAN & Digital Rights
Terms of Reference: Copy-editing of Briefing Paper on ASEAN & Digital Rights
Oxfam in Asia is seeking the services of an individual to copy edit a briefing paper on ASEAN and Digital Rights
Introduction:
Several critical issues stand out when it comes to rights in a digital age in the ASEAN region. The proliferation of surveillance, disinformation and misinformation continues to threaten the integrity of digital civic spaces, eroding public trust and undermining democratic processes. At the same time, significant disparities persist in public digital infrastructure and digital literacy, often compounded by structural gender inequalities.
Similarly, the benefits of the digital economy’s growth have not been evenly distributed, as significant gaps remain between urban and rural with women and other marginalized groups still underrepresented. The increasing automation and adoption of Artificial Intelligence have the potential of reshaping ASEAN labor markets, raising complex questions about fair digital labor practices and the inclusivity of economic participation in an increasing digitalized society.
Compounding these challenges is the pressing need for greater corporate accountability. (MOU1) Technology companies operating in ASEAN have a responsibility to respect human rights and ensure transparency, yet only a small fraction demonstrate meaningful commitments to digital inclusion, AI ethics, and overall human rights standards.
In this context, it is key that ASEAN’s plans are in line with digital rights standards and that they follow a rights-based approach. 2025 is a pivotal year for advancing policy recommendations as the ASEAN Digital Masterplan will come to an end, with a new one expected in 2026, and the recent formation of an AI Working Group. Furthermore, Malaysia’s Chairmanship presents a favorable opportunity for influencing given the government’s relatively openness.
The briefing paper aims to offer a compelling analysis of digital rights within the ASEAN region, structured around two key sections: a background analysis and a set of policy recommendations.
The background analysis will explore the most relevant ASEAN declarations and strategic plans, including the ASEAN Digital Masterplan 2025, the ASEAN Cybersecurity Cooperation Strategy, and the Bangkok Digital Declaration. These foundational documents collectively articulate the region’s priorities in strengthening digital infrastructure, advancing cybersecurity, and promoting deeper integration of the digital economy. Importantly, this analysis examines these documents through the lens of digital rights and broader human rights frameworks, providing a critical perspective on how ASEAN’s strategic goals align with the protection and promotion of rights in a digital age.
Building on this foundation, the policy recommendations section presents targeted strategies designed to address major digital rights challenges and opportunities in the region. The paper aims to offer actionable insights that can guide policymakers in cultivating a digital environment that is secure, inclusive, and conducive to a rights-respecting digital ecosystem in ASEAN.
Length of paper: 17847 words including references, 60 pages.
Intended audience:
This would be a piece to be used by civil society groups working on digital rights and/or ASEAN to advocate for ASEAN’s rights-respecting digitalization related policies and frameworks.
KEY DELIVERABLES
- Initial Design Concept: 2–3 layout options for the briefing paper, including proposed color palette and typography.
- Final Layout of 60-page Briefing Paper: Incorporating text, boxes, tables, and organizational branding.
- Infographics and Visual Elements: Infographics (define based on content) and icons to illustrate key points.
- Editable Source Files: Delivery of all design files in editable formats (InDesign, Illustrator) and print-ready PDF.
TIMELINE:
The tentative contract dates are from 1st December until the 10th December. The expected amount of full working days is 9.
IMPORTANT NOTES
- The selected candidate will report to the Strategic Advisor–Rights in Digital Space & Data Justice at Oxfam, Asia regional platform.
- All the deliverables need to be approved by the project team before being finalized.
- The Consultant will seek the team’s feedback and incorporate it to improve the quality of the deliverable. Oxfam has the right to suggest changes to the deliverables at any time during the period of this consultancy.
- All content produced will be a property of Oxfam and may not be used for other commercial purposes without permission. The consultant will work in close collaboration with Oxfam’s Communications team to ensure delivery of the required products on pre-defined standards, using Oxfam’s branding guidelines. The final products will be subject to approval by Oxfam.
KEY competencies
- Expertise in Layout Design: Proven experience in designing multi-page publications (reports, briefing papers, research documents).
- Infographic and Data Visualization Skills: Ability to translate complex data and concepts into clear, visually appealing graphics.
- Proficiency in Design Software: Advanced skills in Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop (or equivalent professional tools).
- Attention to Detail: Ability to maintain consistency in style, color schemes, and formatting across all pages.
- Time Management: Capacity to meet deadlines and manage revisions efficiently.
How to apply
PROCEDURE FOR SUBMISSION
Interested consultants should send their application to consultancy_oxfam@oxfam.org.uk no later than 26th November 2025 at 23:59 (Bangkok time). To request further information, please contact Lorenzo Urbinati (lorenzo.urbinati@oxfam.org)
Application must include:
- Financial Quotation in EUROs (inclusive of all taxes)
- Sample of previous work
ONLY SHORTLISTED APPLICANTS WILL BE CONTACTED
