Online Volunteer Interpreter

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) is a global organization dedicated to protecting the rights and well-being of refugees and displaced persons. Established in 1950, UNHCR operates in over 130 countries, employing thousands of staff members who work tirelessly to provide assistance and protection to those in need. The organization's mission is to ensure that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another country, and to return home voluntarily, integrate locally, or resettle in a third country. UNHCR's work is guided by the principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality, and independence, and it strives to uphold the dignity and rights of all individuals it serves.

Job Overview:
The Online Volunteer Interpreter position is crucial for facilitating communication between asylum seekers, refugees, and UNHCR staff. The volunteer will interpret interviews conducted by protection units, translating from various Sub-Saharan languages into French and vice versa. This role is essential for ensuring that individuals fleeing their countries receive the necessary assistance and protection. Volunteers must be familiar with UNHCR's goals and the principles of confidentiality and impartiality, as well as the challenges faced by refugees and asylum seekers. The position requires a commitment to providing accurate and effective interpretation services, which are vital for the success of UNHCR's mission.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Interpret interviews for registration, refugee status determination, protection, and resettlement from French into specified Sub-Saharan African languages and vice versa.
• Dedicate 1 to 3 hours per day to interpretation services, ensuring that interpretations are concise and appropriate for the audience.
• Adhere to UNHCR's code of conduct and maintain confidentiality and impartiality throughout the interpretation process.
• Participate in induction training on UNHCR’s mandate and interpretation modalities related to refugees.
• Collaborate with UNHCR staff to ensure effective communication and support for asylum seekers and refugees.
• Stay informed about communication guidelines and best practices in interpretation to align work with UNHCR's standards.

Required Qualifications:

• Proficiency in French and at least one Sub-Saharan African language (e.g., Malinké, Bissa, Moré, Mossi, etc.).
• Strong understanding of the principles of confidentiality and impartiality in interpretation.
• Familiarity with UNHCR's goals and the challenges faced by refugees and asylum seekers.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to convey information accurately and effectively.
• Commitment to UNHCR's mission and values, with a strong sense of empathy for individuals seeking protection.

Educational Background:
While specific educational qualifications are not explicitly stated, a background in languages, interpretation, or a related field is preferred. Volunteers should have a strong command of the languages they will be interpreting and an understanding of the cultural contexts of the individuals they are assisting.

Experience:
Previous experience in interpretation or translation, particularly in a humanitarian context, is highly desirable. Volunteers should have a demonstrated ability to interpret accurately and effectively in high-pressure situations, as well as experience working with diverse populations, including refugees and asylum seekers.

Languages:
Mandatory: Proficiency in French and at least one Sub-Saharan African language (e.g., Malinké, Bissa, Moré, Mossi). Good to have: Additional languages spoken by refugees and asylum seekers in the region.

Additional Notes:
This is a volunteer position, and the commitment is flexible, requiring 1 to 3 hours of interpretation services per day. The role is remote, allowing volunteers to work from anywhere with internet access. Volunteers will receive training and support from UNHCR to ensure they are well-prepared for their responsibilities. The position is open to individuals who are committed to supporting refugees and asylum seekers and who align with UNHCR's mission and values.