Consultant for compiling stories and good practice examples about successful climate action

1. Introduction

Climate justice advocacy and policy engagement is a key priority in the new Strategy of the Lutheran World Federation (2025 – 2031): “Address the climate emergency by advocating for climate justice and policy change and implementing sustainable practices within LWF member churches, country programs, the Communion Office, and communities we work with, while supporting those most affected by the impacts of climate change”. LWF is committed to and in solidarity with the most vulnerable, forging new bi- and plurilateral alliances of the willing in international climate diplomacy. Climate change endangers not only some but all of us, our common security and our future well-being. The LWF therefore advocates that climate multilateralism be resolutely defended against all hostilities and that its instruments, procedures and institutions be developed in such a way that the Paris Agreement can be successfully implemented. The LWF also advocates that governments in countries where the LWF is active enter into new bilateral and plurilateral partnerships, including South-South partnerships in coalitions of the willing, to promote innovative climate action through financial partnerships, technology exchange and joint capacity development. LWF, as a civil society actor, also wants to get involved in this. The Action for Justice Unit is the advocacy hub of the LWF and accompanies member churches, World Service Country Programmes, and collaborates closely with ecumenical and faith-based organizations, civil society, as well as communities affected by climate change impacts. The LWF advocacy methodology is essential to accelerate actions needed to set up a pathway for a sustainable and resilient society and economy where we protect the environment as the foundation for all life. Local to Global Action for Climate Justice Phase 2, is a global project in 21 countries that includes:

Africa: Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, Sierra Leone, Madagascar, South Africa, Ghana, Namibia.

Asia and Pacific: Philippines, Bangladesh, Nepal, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea.

Latin America and the Caribbean: Peru, Argentina, Brazil, Bolivia, El Salvador, Cuba, Honduras, Guatemala.

The overarching project goal is to implement the goals of the Paris Agreement based on the principles of climate justice, peace, care of creation, the realization of human rights and the SDGs. Target groups for the project include churches, faith-based leaders, and faith-based organizations, their congregations, and the communities where they live and indirectly, local, District and National Government officials and policy makers. The project also targets and influences interfaith and civil society actors from local to global. LWF member churches in 21 focus countries represent more than 36 million people according to the LWF 2023 membership figures1 and engage with many more in their diverse communities. A particular focus is placed on youth, women and vulnerable people most impacted by climate change. The project aims for equal participation of women and men when possible and when not, at least will ensure 40% participation whether male or female. Key stakeholders in civil society such as environmental and climate justice organizations are important allies and critical to reach and impact of the project, as are academia and the scientific community to ensure science-based actions are taken and evidence-based advocacy is employed for effective influencing and results. Detailed Terms of Reference are provided below with instructions and deadline for application.

2. Objective of the assignment

To identify and systematize stories and good practice examples of successful climate action, particularly initiatives led by faith-based organizations (FBOs), with a specific focus on Climate Justice initiatives supported by the LWF and other faith-based organizations. The assignment builds on the analysis of more than 100 supported projects and aims to highlight key achievements, emerging trends, and strategic lessons to inform future engagement. The documented practices provide concrete examples of the effectiveness and added value of faith-based organizations in advancing climate action and climate justice. They highlight the contributions of faith communities to locally grounded, inclusive, and transformative climate action, while generating lessons and inspiration that can inform and strengthen future initiatives.

3. Expected deliverables

The assignment will result in the following key outputs:

- Inception Report: A detailed document outlining the proposed methodology and work schedule, to be submitted within two weeks of contract commencement.

- Draft report: The draft report will present the findings from the portfolio review and analysis of project reports, highlighting key achievements and emerging trends across the portfolio. It will identify cross-cutting findings and the key factors that have contributed to successful climate action. The report will also draw out lessons learned and provide initial recommendations for strengthening, replicating, and scaling up effective approaches. - A selection of at least 15 case studies will be included to showcase impact, innovation, and the experiences and profiles of Climate Justice advocates. Online interviews will capture key lessons learned and highlight the added value and contribution of faith-based organizations. They will also identify the factors that have contributed to the success of these initiatives. - Final report will consolidate the round of comments from the LWF, including a section of conclusions and recommendations.

These deliverables are to be:

- Prepared in English - Submitted to the LWF Program Executive for Climate Justice electronically via e-mail.

4. Suggested time frame and period of the assignment

The assignment is expected to require a total of approximately 18 working days, distributed between Mid September- Mid December 2026.

5. Methodology

The methodology should integrate