Advocacy representative in NGOs involves promoting the organization's objectives and influencing public policy by developing and implementing advocacy strategies. They work to engage with government officials, decision-makers, and other stakeholders to advocate for the NGO's policy positions, as well as building relationships with the media to raise awareness about key issues. Advocacy representatives collaborate with other NGOs and stakeholders to build alliances and coalitions that promote shared policy objectives. They should have a deep understanding of political systems, public policy, and the social and political issues related to the organization's focus area, as well as strong analytical and communication skills. Advocacy representatives need to be adaptable, able to work under pressure, and passionate about the organization's mission.

The ultimate goal of an advocacy representative in NGOs is to shape public policy, influence decision-makers, and raise awareness about important social and political issues to promote the NGO's objectives.

- Education and Experience: Typically, a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as political science, public policy, international relations, or a related field is required for this position. Experience working in advocacy or public policy is also highly desirable.

- Knowledge and Skills: Advocacy representatives in NGOs in Turkey should have a deep understanding of political systems, public policy, and the social and political issues related to the organization's focus area. They should also have strong analytical skills, excellent communication skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with stakeholders from diverse backgrounds.

- Language Skills: Fluency in Turkish and English is often required for advocacy representatives in NGOs in Turkey, as they may need to communicate with policymakers, stakeholders, and international partners.

- Strategic Thinking: Advocacy representatives in NGOs should be able to think strategically and develop effective advocacy and communication strategies to achieve the organization's goals.

- Adaptability: NGO advocacy work in Turkey can be dynamic and fast-paced, so advocacy representatives should be adaptable and able to work effectively under pressure and with changing priorities.

- Commitment to Mission: Advocacy representatives should be passionate about the organization's mission and committed to promoting its values and objectives.

The role involves the following responsibilities:

- Advocacy and Campaigning: Developing and implementing advocacy strategies and campaigns to influence policies and practices that align with the NGO's mission and objectives. This may include conducting research, networking with stakeholders, building alliances, and developing messaging and communication strategies to promote the NGO's agenda.

- Lobbying: Engaging with government officials, policymakers, and other decision-makers to advocate for the NGO's policy positions and influence public policy in Turkey. This may involve building relationships with key stakeholders, providing expert advice and briefings, and participating in consultations and public hearings.

- Public Relations: Building and maintaining positive relationships with media outlets and journalists to promote the NGO's work and raise awareness about key issues. This may involve developing press releases, organizing press conferences and events, and responding to media inquiries.

- Capacity Building: Building the capacity of the NGO's staff and volunteers in advocacy and campaigning skills, including training on research, lobbying, messaging, and communication strategies.

- Collaboration: Collaborating with other NGOs, civil society organizations, and stakeholders to build alliances and coalitions to advocate for shared policy objectives.

- Monitoring and Evaluation: Monitoring and evaluating the impact of the NGO's advocacy and campaigning efforts, and making recommendations for improvements based on data and feedback.

Child Protection Policy

Child abuse in all forms is unacceptable to WATAN, which recognizes its responsibility to protect children from harm in all areas of its work. WATAN is committed to ensuring a child-safe environment and is applying a zero-tolerance approach towards any kind of child abuse and exploitation.

Discrimination, Abuse and Harassment Policy

WATAN provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and expressly prohibits and will not tolerate any form of discrimination, abuse, harassment (sexual or otherwise), based upon race, ethnicity, religion, national origin, gender, age, sexual orientation, marital status, citizenship status, disability, or military status.

WATAN employees and related personnel must under no circumstances take part in any form of discrimination, harassment, or abuse (physical, sexual or verbal), intimidation or exploitation, or in any other way infringe the rights of others inside or outside WATAN.