Appointments: Chair, Advisory Committee on Freedom of Access to Information and Freedom of Expression (FAIFE)

Term: August 2023-August 2025

Appointments will be made by IFLA’s Governing Board in April 2023

Overview

The Advisory Committee on Freedom of Access to Information and Freedom of Expression (FAIFE) is responsible for monitoring and responding to key developments on intellectual freedom and human rights globally, supporting both the Governing Board and the wider field.

Its Chair leads this work, promoting lively discussions, timely action, and coordinating with other parts of IFLA.

Who can stand for this position?

Anyone can stand. Candidates do not have to be an IFLA Member or Affiliate, and if elected, are elected in their own right and not as the representative of their employer or nominator.

What is the term of office?

The term of office is two (2) years from 2023 – 2025. This term is renewable once, although individuals would need to stand again for re-election. It is not possible to serve more than four years in a row on the Advisory Committee in any capacity.

What are the roles and responsibilities for this position?

The Chair of the Advisory Committee on Freedom of Access to Information and Freedom of Expression (FAIFE) leads work to provide practical advice to the Governing Board, raise awareness of questions relating to intellectual freedom and wider human rights in the library field and beyond, and oversees cooperation with other committees and groups in support of the Federation’s and the Committee’s overall goals.

The Committee also monitors the status of intellectual freedom and other human rights around the world, highlighting situations where IFLA can take action, promotes the development of relationships with relevant global and regional organisations, and supports wider policy development and advocacy.

Find out more about the work of FAIFE.

What skills and attributes do I need for this position?

Candidates for this position should be able to demonstrate:

  • extensive expertise, experience and interest in intellectual freedom and other human rights;
  • proven ability to lead and inspire the work of a diverse range of colleagues on a committee and development of work that supports the wider library field;
  • an interest in strategic planning, implementation and review processes;
  • experience in communication, representation and networking;
  • willingness and ability to devote time and energy to the role – this is usually several hours per month;
  • time allowance to prepare and attend meetings of the Advisory Committee, and financial resources to attend at least the IFLA annual Congress;
  • an ability to act with respect, trust, confidentiality and transparency and recognize the need to protect personal and privileged information. Candidates must declare any conflicts of interest and abstain from discussions where they have a conflict or potential conflict of interest.

How many nominations do I need?

Each candidate requires one (1) nomination for this position.

Who can be a nominator?

IFLA Association Members (National and International) can nominate individuals for this position. They have received an election email containing information describing how they can submit a nomination.

How many candidates can each Association Member nominate for this position?

Each Association Member can nominate one (1) candidate for this position.

How do I find a nominator?

Check the list of National and International Associations. You may contact them asking to be nominated.

How do I submit my nominee form?

Those wishing to stand as a candidate will need to submit a nominee form for this position. This should be done once a nominator has been found. In this form you will be asked to provide a statement of up to 300 words describing how you demonstrate the skills and attributes required.

A nomination only becomes valid when there is is both a completed nomination form and a completed nominee form.

More information

Learn more about the remit of Advisory Committees in Rule 14.3.2.1 of the IFLA Rules of Procedure.