ICRC Pashto Interpreter
Join the world's largest humanitarian network.
The Swedish Red Cross is part of the Red Cross/Red Crescent Movement, the world’s largest humanitarian network. The Red Cross/Red Crescent is working to improve the lives of vulnerable people before, during and after disasters and emergencies. We support people whoever they are, wherever they are.
As one of the 192 National Societies in the Movement, the Swedish Red Cross contributes towards emergency response in various ways ranging from technical to financial support. For example in 2023 we support with food, shelter, health care, water and sanitation to people in need. We are bound by the Red Cross/Red Crescent fundamental principles: humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity and universality.
If you want to contribute, please apply to the Swedish Red Cross today!
The Swedish Red Cross (SRC) in partnership with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), an independent humanitarian organization whose mandate is to provide protection and assistance for victims of armed conflict and internal disturbances, has vacancies for:
Pashto Interpreter
What we do
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) works worldwide to provide humanitarian assistance to people affected by conflict and armed violence. We take action in response to emergencies and at the same time promote respect for international humanitarian law. We are an independent and neutral organization, and our mandate stems essentially from the Geneva Conventions of 1949. We work closely with National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and with their International Federation in order to ensure a concerted, rational and rapid humanitarian response to the needs of the victims of armed conflict or any other situation of internal violence. We direct and coordinate the international activities conducted in these situations.
Role description
Visiting detainees, re-uniting families separated by conflict, organising emergency relief aid and talking to combatants about their responsibilities under the Geneva Conventions are all in day’s work for the ICRC. As an interpreter, you will be the vital communication link enabling ICRC delegates to carry out these protection-related activities.
Main responsibilities
- Oral interpretation: from Pashto to English and vice versa during confidential interviews with people deprived of liberty, ICRC institutional dissemination, ICRC dialogue with authorities, activities to establish the family links which includes delivering Red Cross messages, family tracing and visits to families of detainees
- Written translation: translation of Pashto language (newspaper articles, correspondence, etc.) into written English
- Analysis and reporting as required: analysis of conditions of detention, security and other matters relating to the ICRC's mandate
Desired profile and skills
- Very good command of English and Pashto
- 2 years of professional experience. Previous interpreter or translator experience is an advantage
- Strongly motivated by humanitarian work
- Able to work under pressure in a potentially dangerous environment
- Open-minded and adaptable
- University education/degree in interpretation or translation is an advantage
Our operational & field constraints
- In line with the principle of neutrality, the ICRC does not assign personnel to a country of which they are nationals
- Candidates must be in good health and will have to do a medical check-up prior to departure in the field
- Candidates must possess a driving licence (for manual transmission vehicles)
- Candidates must be prepared to accept unaccompanied postings (i.e. no spouse, partner, children or dependents) for the first two missions (minimum 12 months each) or total of 24 months
How to apply
For more information and to apply to this opportunity, please visit the ICRC Career site: ICRC Pashto Interpreter
For applicants from Sweden, you may be eligible to work as Staff on Loan from the Swedish Red Cross. If you have questions about this possibility, you are welcome to contact Lina Eriksson, SRC International HR Partner at lina.eriksson@redcross.se
Ready to apply? Don't forget to check if you meet all the criteria before sending your application. You will need to upload your resume and a cover letter as well as copies of your diplomas and certifications, passport, and driving license.
The ICRC values diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive working environment. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates.