Restless Development Youth Researchers: Call for Proposals – €2,500 Grant

Young Researchers Wanted: Join the Restless Development for Youth Researchers Program and Make a Difference! – Are you a young researcher eager to contribute to positive change in the fields of civic engagement and democratic governance?

Here’s an exciting opportunity for you! Restless Development, in collaboration with Democracy Moves and thanks to the generous support of the Porticus Learning Partnership, is offering grants to empower youth-led action research.

With a total funding of 7,500 euros, three small-scale subgrants of 2,500 euros each will be awarded over the next 18 months. This program aims to harness the power of youth-led insights and innovative research to drive advocacy and shape a more just, long-lasting, and democratic future.

Research Themes: Unleash Your Potential

Restless Development has identified several research themes that hold significant potential for impact and scalability. By addressing these themes, you can explore and offer insights on critical issues related to democratic government and civic participation. The research themes include:

1. Intergenerational alliances for countering the rise of authoritarianism.
2. Organizing to counter democratic backsliding.
3. Political participation of young people – influence and impact beyond elections.
4. Intersectional youth movements – effective support, gaps, and impactful initiatives.
5. Local threats and opportunities related to digital technologies.
6. Impact (positive/negative) of new media technologies.

Responsibilities and Benefits

If selected, you will have a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research and make a lasting impact. As a youth researcher, you will be expected to:

1. Participate in onboarding/training sessions to finalize the research approach and design.
2. Attend a safeguarding and security briefing to ensure the well-being of all involved.
3. Maintain regular communication with the research working group through weekly check-in calls.
4. Deliver a comprehensive research report that includes a literature review, methodology, findings, analysis, and recommendations.
5. Engage in evaluation and learning debrief sessions to reflect on the research process.
6. Present your research findings at events organized in collaboration with Porticus and wider networks.

By Joining the Program, You Will Also Enjoy Various Benefits, Including:

• Mentorship and support from the Democracy Moves Scholars Network.
• Informal networking opportunities to connect with fellow researchers and gain additional insights.
• Ongoing support from Restless Development and Democracy Moves throughout the research journey.

Eligibility and Selection Criteria

The Restless Development for Youth Researchers program is open to youth researchers who are passionate about driving change in the areas of Democratic Governance and Civic Engagement.

To apply, your research proposal should address or connect with one of the main themes outlined above. When evaluating proposals, the selection committee will consider the following criteria:

1. Relevance: How well does your proposal align with the identified research themes and objectives?
2. Clarity: Is your research question, objectives, and methodology clearly articulated?
3. Feasibility: Can you demonstrate the feasibility of your proposed research?

Application Process: Make Your Voice Heard

If you’re interested in becoming a youth researcher, submit an expression of interest and a research proposal that aligns with one of the main themes. Your proposal, which should not exceed four pages, must include the following information:

1. Personal details – Provide your name, age, contact information, and relevant background/experience.
2. Proposed research topic – Clearly state the research theme you have chosen and provide an overview of your research question(s) and objectives.
3. Methodology – Outline your research approach, methods, and data collection techniques.
4. Timeline – Provide an estimated timeline for your research, including key milestones and deliverables.
5. Impact and potential recommendations – Describe the anticipated impact of your research andhow the findings could be used for advocacy and change.
6. Ethical considerations = Explain how you will address ethical standards and safeguarding measures during the research process.

For more information, visit: Restless Development | Apply Here

The deadline for submissions is July 16, 2023. Don’t miss this opportunity to contribute your unique perspective and make a difference!

Apply now and learn more about the Restless Development for Youth Researchers program on the Restless Development website. Let your voice be heard and shape the future through youth-led action research!