Background

Wahid Foundation (WF) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the advancement of a tolerant and multicultural society in Indonesia with strong works on interfaith dialogue, peacebuilding, community empowerment, freedom of religion and belief, and preventing/countering violent extremism (P/CVE). Established in 2004 by KH Abdurrahman Wahid (Gus Dur), the 4th President of Indonesia, Wahid Foundation has been working with various grassroots actors, such as religious and indigenous leaders, community organizations, as well as youth and women activists. Having strong partnership with a wide network of civil society and multiple levels of state stakeholders, WF also has a solid capacity to facilitate policy advocacy to advance the public agenda for a more tolerant, inclusive, and resilient society in Indonesia.

Job Purpose:

The Program Officer for Research and Policy Advocacy is responsible for designing, implementing, and managing research activities and policy advocacy strategies related to issues such as human rights, social-religious dynamics, gender equality, violent extremism prevention, international relation and inclusive development. The role contributes to evidence-based programming and supports stakeholder engagement to influence public policy in line with the Foundation’s mission.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Research & Knowledge Generation

• Design and lead qualitative (and where possible, quantitative) research on relevant social, religious, international affairs and human rights issues.
• Develop research instruments, oversee data collection, and coordinate with field researchers or consultants as needed.
• Ensure the ethical conduct of research, including safeguarding and informed consent processes.
• Analyze research findings and produce reports, briefs, and policy papers to inform programming and advocacy.

2. Policy Advocacy

• Identify key policy windows, stakeholders, and opportunities for advocacy aligned with the program’s goals.
• Develop and implement evidence-based advocacy strategies targeting government agencies, religious leaders, civil society actors, and other influencers.
• Represent the organization in relevant forums, coalitions, and policy dialogues.
• Support the drafting of policy recommendations, position papers, and talking points.

3. Partnership & Stakeholder Engagement

• Build and maintain relationships with academic institutions, research partners, think tanks, and policymakers.
• Collaborate with local communities, especially marginalized groups, to ensure inclusive and participatory advocacy processes.

4. Program Support & Coordination

• Provide input into program design and planning, ensuring alignment with research findings and advocacy goals.
• Contribute to the preparation of donor reports, proposals, and other communication materials.
• Monitor and evaluate the impact of research and advocacy activities, documenting learning and best practices.

5. General

• Support organizational efforts to mainstream GEDSI (Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion) in all aspects of programming.
• Undertake other tasks as assigned by the Program Manager (Supervisor) and/or Managing Director in line with program needs.

Required Qualifications and Experience:

• Minimum bachelor’s degree in social sciences, political science, international relations, development studies, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in qualitative research related to socio-religious issues, human rights, violent extremism, or international relations. Experience in quantitative research is an added advantage.
• At least 2 years of experience in policy advocacy, preferably in the area of preventing and countering violent extremism (P/CVE).
• Strong understanding of Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) principles.
• Willing to travel within Indonesia as required.
• Strong understanding of human rights, gender equality, and inclusive development.
• Familiarity with issues of violent extremism and peacebuilding is a plus.
• Excellent communication skills (written and verbal), both in Bahasa Indonesia and English.
• Able to work independently and collaboratively in a diverse and dynamic environment.
• Any task assigned by the organization.

 Equal Opportunity Statement:

Wahid Foundation is an equal opportunity employer. We strongly encourage applications from women and persons with disabilities. We are committed to building an inclusive environment for all employees.

How to Apply

Please send cover letter and CV describing your qualities and experiences to info@wahidfoundation.org with “Program Officer – Research and Policy Advocacy_Applicant Name” in the subject line.

APPLICATIONS CLOSE 25 July 2025, 23:59 – Western Indonesia Time

Only candidates who are short-listed will be contacted individually for attending the next steps of the assessment process.