ICRC Pashto Interpreter

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:

Pashto 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 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 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.