Global Coalition of Tuberculosis Activists calls for nominations for Regional Focal Points and Alternates

Formed in 2013, the Global Coalition of Tuberculosis Activists (GCTA) is a coalition of representatives of communities affected by tuberculosis (TB) that aims to bring together activists from diverse backgrounds and regions to ensure that affected communities are at the center of the response against TB.

The coalition is an independent body governed by a Steering Committee comprised of a Chair, Vice-Chair, the three members on the Stop TB Partnership Coordinating Board (two community and one developing NGO representative), and six regional representatives. More information on the governance of the GCTA is available in the GCTA website: gctacommunity.org

Nominations are now invited for the following volunteer positions:

• Regional Focal Point – South East Asia
• Regional Focal Point – Western Pacific
• Alternate Regional Focal Point – South East Asia
• Alternate Regional Focal Point – Western Pacific
• Alternate Regional Focal Point – MENA Region
• Alternate Regional Focal Point – Europe (preferably bilingual in English and Russian)
• Alternate Regional Focal Point – Africa (preferably bilingual in English and French)
• Alternate Regional Focal Point – Americas (preferably bilingual in English and Spanish)

The list of countries under each region can be found on the WHO website here. 

The Regional Focal Point (RFP) will be the first line of communication with civil society at the country/regional level and global level, and, will report to the Chair of the GCTA and maintain constant lines of communication with the Chair and Vice Chair of the GCTA. The Alternates will work together with the RFP; provide necessary support and step-in in the absence of the RFP.

The Regional Focal Points will serve for two years and be responsible for the following activities (scope of activities and concrete annual plans will be refined with the input from Regional Coordinators/ focal points in coordination with Steering Committee and based on specific needs of each region):

• Develop and maintain a region-specific partner database or contact list per country.
• Develop mechanism to communicate with and receive feedback from TB activists in their region.
• Participate in all regular GCTA Steering Committee meetings and conference calls to ensure regional perspectives are highlighted.
• Facilitate strategic planning and provide guidance for an effective Steering Committee.
• Represent the GCTA in national/ regional events and forums as required.
• Facilitate the development and dissemination of regular reports of GCTA activities, specifically gathering information for region-specific input.
• Support and facilitate resource mobilization, partnership and networking activities within the region.
• Ensure membership compliance with GCTA core values, code of conduct and processes.

This position is voluntary and non-remunerable (small communications support is provided to RFPs).

The Selection Committee, will select the most suitable individuals based on the following criteria:

• Must be from a representative of patients’ group, TB affected community or civil society organization working on TB.
• Must have experience representing communities and working with national TB programs and other civil society groups.
• Should have established and demonstrable linkages with other Communities Constituency members and/or organizations.
• Must be able and willing to give time and work (mostly online communication) for the GCTA on a voluntary basis.
• Must have access to Internet, email, and phone infrastructure.
• Must be able to communicate (written and oral) in English.

Nominations may be made by self or others and the application should be accompanied by the following:

• Cover letter outlining the individual’s suitability for the position as well as linkages with the wider Constituency;

• Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume;

• Support letter from a leading TB Regional or National Non-Governmental Organization and/or Civil Society Network

The applications should be sent to secretariat@gctacommunity.org by April 6, 2015.

Source: GCTA