Cultural Mediator

Job Posting Organization:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a humanitarian organization that responds to the world's most severe crises, providing essential support to those affected by conflict and disaster. Established in 1933, the IRC has a long history of helping refugees and displaced individuals rebuild their lives. With operations in over 50 countries, the IRC focuses on restoring safety, dignity, and hope to millions of people who have been uprooted. In Italy, the IRC has been active since 2017, addressing critical protection gaps identified in the assistance provided to refugees and migrants, including mental health support, legal assistance, and services for unaccompanied minors. The organization has expanded its presence significantly over the past eight years, implementing various programs aimed at socio-economic inclusion and educational initiatives for refugee youth and women.

Job Overview:
The Cultural Mediator position is designed for a French-Bambara/Somali-Arabic speaking individual who will work as part of a roving team led by a Protection and Specific Needs Expert based in Catania, Italy. This role is crucial in supporting newly arrived individuals, particularly survivors of trafficking, in disembarkation points and reception facilities. The Cultural Mediator will provide cultural mediation services, direct support, and information sessions to assist these individuals in navigating their new environment. The position requires a high degree of autonomy and the ability to work collaboratively with the Protection Expert and other organizations to identify and address the specific needs of vulnerable populations. The Cultural Mediator will also contribute to data collection and protection monitoring activities, ensuring that the needs of the beneficiaries are met effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Cultural Mediator will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including:

• Providing cultural mediation during information sessions, both in group settings and one-on-one meetings with newly arrived individuals in key disembarkation areas and emergency reception centers.
• Delivering accurate and timely information regarding rights and duties, particularly focusing on asylum procedures and anti-trafficking measures, especially for women, children, and families.
• Conducting outreach in disembarkation areas and reception facilities to assess beneficiaries' needs and vulnerabilities.
• Identifying individuals with specific needs, including survivors of trafficking, gender-based violence (GBV) survivors, unaccompanied minors, and at-risk children, and facilitating referrals to appropriate services.
• Participating in internal capacity-building activities to enhance the team's skills in working with sensitive populations.
• Supporting protection monitoring efforts by collecting relevant data.
• Performing any additional tasks assigned by the line manager.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess fluency in French and Bambara or Somali and Arabic, along with a good command of Italian. Previous experience in cultural mediation or interpretation is essential, as is experience in providing information sessions to migrants and asylum seekers. A solid understanding of the Italian legal system related to international protection procedures is required, as well as experience working with trafficking survivors. Familiarity with a survivor-centered, trauma-informed approach and a child-centered approach is also necessary. Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook) and the ability to utilize digital tools for data entry and research are important. A valid driver's license is strongly preferred, and candidates should demonstrate teamwork, problem-solving skills, and the ability to foster a proactive environment. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are crucial, along with political and cultural sensitivity, patience, tact, and diplomacy.

Educational Background:


Experience:
The position requires candidates to have previous experience in cultural mediation or interpretation, particularly in contexts involving migrants and asylum seekers. Experience in providing information sessions and working with vulnerable populations, such as trafficking survivors, is essential. A good understanding of the legal frameworks surrounding international protection in Italy is also necessary, along with familiarity with trauma-informed care practices.

Languages:
Fluency in French and Bambara or Somali and Arabic is mandatory, with a good command of Italian. Knowledge of the Arabic language is preferable, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively with diverse populations.

Additional Notes:
This position is expected to last until 31 December 2026, with a compensation of 2,258 EUR. The compensation is determined based on various factors, including the labor market, job type, internal equity, and budget considerations. The IRC is committed to equal opportunity employment and evaluates all applicants based on merit, without discrimination based on race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability.