ICRC Burmese Interpreter

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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!

Apply by

2024-12-31

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 a vacancy for:

Burmese Interpreter

 

What we do

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) works worldwide to provide humanitarian protection and 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 Burmese 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 Burmese 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

  • Excellent command of the Burmese and English language
  • 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 at least the first 24 months
  • All successful candidates will be asked to undergo a background/reference check

 

What we offer

  • Rewarding work in a humanitarian and multicultural environment
  • A two-week orientation course and other opportunities for further in-house training
  • Attractive social benefits
  • Length of assignment: 12 months
  • Join an ICRC talent pool and be considered for future assignments elsewhere

 

Our Values

At the ICRC, we value impact, collaboration, respect, and compassion. We seek candidates who demonstrate behaviors based on these shared values. For more information on the ICRC values, please visit this page.

 

How to apply

For more information and to apply to this opportunity, please visit the ICRC Career Site and select the relevant position among the vacancies.

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 Mikael Edelstam, SRC International HR Partner at [email protected]

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.

Responsible recruiter

Mikael Edelstam

[email protected]