The Council of Europe’s Division for Cooperation on Freedom of Expression has officially embarked on a vital new mission: building a robust network of experts to help combat the pervasive spread of disinformation. In an era where information can blur the lines between truth and manipulation, the Council is looking to assemble a diverse pool of talented consultants. This initiative isn’t just about technical policy; it is fundamentally about protecting the integrity of our media landscapes, cultural values, educational systems, and the future of our youth. By bringing together skilled professionals, they aim to create a collaborative force capable of tackling the complex challenges that disinformation poses to democratic societies.
The scope of this project is intentionally broad, reflecting the multifaceted nature of the problem. Central to this effort is the “RESIST” project, but the work will extend to various other initiatives aimed at bolstering public resilience. The Council has structured this opportunity into three specific “Lots,” inviting specialists to lend their expertise where it matters most. Whether you are a legal mind capable of drafting sophisticated policy advice, an educator skilled in capacity building, or a researcher adept at uncovering underlying trends and data, there is a space here for your contribution. The goal is to build a sustainable, long-term support network, with the framework contract set to remain active until the end of 2030.
For those eager to get involved, the application process is straightforward but requires careful attention to detail. All submissions must be handled through the Council of Europe’s dedicated e-procurement portal. It is important to emphasize that this is a digital-only process; the Council will strictly reject any applications sent by traditional email or postal services. By centralizing the process, they ensure that every candidate is treated with consistency and transparency, maintaining a fair playing field for all experts, whether they are independent freelancers or representatives of larger consulting firms.
Timing is a critical factor for any applicant. The final deadline for submitting your tender is March 3, 2026, at 16:00 Strasbourg time. However, to avoid any last-minute technical hurdles, it is highly recommended that you register on the e-procurement platform much sooner. Because the account activation process itself requires validation by the Council—which can take up to one full working day—you should not wait until the final hours to begin your registration. Treating this as a priority task will ensure your application successfully enters the queue without the stress of impending deadlines or technical malfunctions.
Communication during this process is also handled exclusively through the platform to ensure that everyone has access to the same information. If you have any inquiries regarding the requirements or the nature of the work, you must submit them through the portal’s messaging system by February 24, 2026. The Council is committed to transparency, and they will publish answers to all relevant questions directly on the site for all prospective applicants to see. By marking your profile as “interested” on the platform, you will stay informed about any updates, clarifications, or shifts in the tender process, which is essential for any serious contender.
Ultimately, this initiative is an invitation to participate in a larger, collective defense of objective truth. The Council of Europe is seeking individuals who understand that disinformation is not merely a technical error in communication, but a hurdle that requires nuanced, expert, and sustained intervention. By offering your professional skills to this project, you are stepping into a collaborative role that helps safeguard the foundational pillars of freedom of expression across Europe. Whether you have spent years in legal, academic, or grassroots advocacy, this is a unique chance to turn that knowledge into tangible policy impact through a long-term partnership with one of the most respected organizations in the world.