Bengali-speaking Cultural Mediator

Job Posting Organization:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a global humanitarian organization that responds to the world's worst humanitarian crises. Founded in 1933, IRC has been dedicated to helping people affected by conflict and disaster to survive, recover, and rebuild their lives. With a presence in over 40 countries and numerous offices in the United States, IRC employs thousands of staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to provide essential services to those in need. The organization focuses on various areas including health, education, economic wellbeing, and protection, with a mission to restore safety, dignity, and hope to millions of people. In Italy, IRC has been active since 2017, addressing critical protection gaps for refugees and migrants, particularly in mental health, legal support, and socio-economic inclusion.

Job Overview:
The Bengali-speaking Cultural Mediator position is a vital role within the International Rescue Committee's mobile protection team in Southern Italy. This role is specifically designed to support newly arrived refugees and migrants, particularly those who are survivors of trafficking or have specific protection needs. The Cultural Mediator will engage directly with individuals in disembarkation points and reception facilities, providing essential cultural mediation, interpretation, and information services. The position requires a proactive approach to identifying vulnerabilities among the refugee population and facilitating appropriate referrals to support services. The Cultural Mediator will also play a crucial role in outreach activities, ensuring that the most vulnerable individuals receive the necessary assistance and support. This position is not only about providing information but also about building trust and rapport with individuals who may be experiencing trauma and uncertainty.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Cultural Mediator will be responsible for a range of duties, including but not limited to: providing cultural mediation and interpretation during both group and individual information sessions in disembarkation areas and reception facilities; delivering accurate and up-to-date information regarding rights, asylum procedures, and available services, with a particular focus on women, children, and families; identifying protection risks and specific needs among the refugee population, including survivors of trafficking, gender-based violence (GBV) survivors, unaccompanied and separated children, and children at risk; supporting referrals to appropriate protection and anti-trafficking services; conducting outreach activities in collaboration with IRC and inter-agency partners; contributing to protection monitoring, data collection, and reporting activities; participating in internal training and capacity-building initiatives; and performing any other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess fluency in Bengali, both spoken and written, and a good command of Italian. Knowledge of Urdu is considered an asset. Previous experience in cultural mediation and/or interpretation is essential, as is experience in providing information sessions to migrants and asylum seekers. A solid understanding of the Italian asylum and international protection system is required, along with experience working with trafficking survivors and familiarity with survivor-centered, trauma-informed, and child-centered approaches. Strong interpersonal, communication, and teamwork skills are necessary, as well as cultural and political sensitivity, professionalism, and discretion. Proficiency in Microsoft Office is required, and a valid driver’s license is strongly preferred.

Educational Background:
While the specific educational background is not explicitly stated, candidates are generally expected to have a relevant degree or equivalent experience in social work, international relations, or a related field that supports the functions of cultural mediation and support for refugees and migrants.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have prior experience in cultural mediation and/or interpretation, particularly in contexts involving migrants and asylum seekers. Experience working with vulnerable populations, especially trafficking survivors, is highly valued. Familiarity with the challenges faced by refugees and the ability to navigate complex social and legal systems is crucial for success in this role.

Languages:
Fluency in Bengali is mandatory, with a good command of Italian also required. Knowledge of Urdu is considered beneficial but not essential. The ability to communicate effectively in these languages is critical for the role, as it directly impacts the quality of support provided to refugees and migrants.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Catania, Italy, and requires regular travel to various disembarkation points and reception facilities across Sicily and Calabria. This role is part of a mobile protection team, which indicates a dynamic working environment that may involve varying hours and locations. The position is expected to continue through 2026, reflecting the ongoing commitment of IRC to support refugees and migrants in Italy. The role is full-time, and candidates should be prepared for the challenges and rewards of working in a humanitarian context.