UN Volunteer Translator (Pashto and Dari)

Job Posting Organization:
The UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees) is a global organization established on July 22, 1993, with a mission to protect people forced to flee their homes due to conflict and persecution. It operates in over 130 countries and is dedicated to providing life-saving assistance, safeguarding fundamental human rights, and helping displaced individuals rebuild their lives with dignity and hope. In Bulgaria, UNHCR collaborates with the government and civil society organizations to enhance the national protection system for refugees, particularly in response to the ongoing refugee crisis stemming from the war in Ukraine and other conflict-affected regions. Historically, Bulgaria has been known for its hospitality towards refugees, having laid the legislative foundations for refugee protection with the ratification of the 1951 Geneva Convention and its 1967 Protocol. The organization plays a crucial role in coordinating the Inter-Agency Refugee Response for the Ukraine Situation in Bulgaria, ensuring that the needs of displaced persons are met effectively and compassionately.

Job Overview:
The UN Volunteer Translator position focuses on enhancing UNHCR's communication and community engagement efforts by providing accurate translations and proofreading services for various texts from English into Pashto and Dari. The role is essential in ensuring that the information disseminated to refugees and asylum seekers is culturally appropriate and accessible. The translator will be responsible for translating a variety of written materials, including social media posts, FAQs, posters, handouts, and learning materials. The expected workload includes translating four social media posts weekly, proofreading four existing translations, and assisting with live correspondence and real-time interpretation for beneficiaries. The position requires a commitment to maintaining confidentiality and adhering to UNHCR's communication guidelines, with tasks assigned based on the organization's needs from May 2026 until August 2026.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the UN Volunteer Translator include:

• Translating a variety of written materials from English into Pashto and Dari, including social media posts, FAQs, posters, handouts, and learning materials.
• Proofreading and editing existing translations to ensure clarity, accuracy, and consistency.
• Assisting with live correspondence and real-time interpretation for beneficiaries who have contacted UNHCR.
• Adapting translations to be culturally sensitive and appropriate for the target audience.
• Maintaining confidentiality and following UNHCR's communication guidelines.
• Meeting expected workloads, including four social media posts and one post for the UNHCR Help Page per week, as well as providing interpretation services on short notice.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires candidates to possess strong language skills in both Pashto and Dari, with a high level of proficiency in English. Candidates should have experience in translation and proofreading, particularly in a humanitarian or refugee context. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate cultural sensitivity and an understanding of the challenges faced by refugees and asylum seekers. Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work under pressure are essential for this role.

Educational Background:
Candidates should have a relevant educational background in translation, linguistics, or a related field. A degree or certification in translation or interpretation is preferred, along with demonstrated experience in translating documents and materials in a professional setting.

Experience:
Candidates are expected to have prior experience in translation and proofreading, particularly in contexts related to humanitarian work or refugee assistance. Experience working with diverse communities and understanding the socio-cultural dynamics of refugee populations is highly valued. Familiarity with UNHCR's mission and objectives will be considered an asset.

Languages:
Mandatory languages for this position include Pashto and Dari, with a strong command of English. Knowledge of additional languages relevant to the refugee population in Bulgaria may be considered an advantage.

Additional Notes:
The position is a volunteer role with a contract duration from May 2026 until August 202

• It requires a commitment to full-time work, with flexibility in availability for interpretation services on short notice. The role is focused on supporting UNHCR's efforts in Bulgaria, particularly in response to the ongoing refugee crisis.