Pashto Interpreter

Purpose Language is at the heart of humanitarian action; it enables dialogue, builds trust, and ensures that people affected by conflict can express themselves and be heard. The ICRC Interpreter plays a critical role in enabling this by facilitating accurate and meaningful communication among ICRC delegates, affected populations, authorities, and other stakeholders. Through interpretation in sensitive and complex contexts, including protection activities, visits to detainees, family reunification processes, and dialogue with parties to conflict, the Interpreter ensures that every conversation can take place with clarity, respect, and confidentiality. This is a unique, people-centered role that goes beyond translating words. It requires judgment, cultural awareness, and a deep understanding of the humanitarian principles guiding the ICRC’s work, helping build bridges of understanding where communication can make a real difference. Accountabilities & Functional Responsibilities Oral interpretation: from Pashto and or Dari to English and vice versa during confidential interviews with people deprived of liberty, ICRC institutional dissemination, documentation of IHL violations, 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 and or Dari language (newspaper articles, diplomatic correspondence, etc.) into written English and vice versa, when needed. Analysis and reporting as required: analysis of conditions of detention, security and humanitarian environment, other matters relating to the ICRC's mandate. Can be asked to provide support on other protection activities as needed. Relationships Externally, interacts with the authorities, representatives of other organizations and beneficiaries, both within and outside places of detention. May be called upon to develop a network of contacts related to operational needs. Internally, interacts with staff in other departments, notably multidisciplinary teams working in detention.

Required Profile and Skills Excellent command of English (C1) required Excellent command of Pashto and/or Dari (C1) is required, with a preference for Pashto. Proficiency in other ICRC operational languages (French, Spanish, Russian, Arabic, Portuguese) is considered a strong asset. 2 years of professional experience. Previous interpreter or translator experience is an advantage. Strongly motivated by humanitarian work, in complex environments, including active hostilities. Able to work under pressure in a confined setting. Open-minded and adaptable. Able to read and adapt to cultural sensitivities. University education/degree in interpretation or translation is an advantage.