Translators for the UNHCR Refugee Agency

The United Nations for Refugees was established in 1950 by the General Assembly of the United Nations. Its objective is to lead and coordinate the international action to protect the refugees and resolve their problems worldwide. Its priority is to assure the rights and the well-being of the refugees. The organization makes an effort to make sure that all people can exert their right to seek refuge in another country with the option to return to their own country.
(traducido www.unhcr.org )

Program Description

With the objective of reinforcing its mission locally and promoting the cause in favor of the refugees, the UNHCR offers opportunities for internships in some of its areas. In this way, the students can gain the experience of working with the United Nations, which could benefit their future careers. Additionally, the UNHCR benefits from the support of employing young people. Internships are offered according to the activities of each unit.

Volunteer work activities

Under the supervision of the assistant of the refugee protection department the volunteer will do the following activities:

• Volunteers will translate the life stories of refugees from Spanish to English coherently and concisely.
• They will analize the special necessities of each case.
• Volunteers in some cases will have the opportunity to participate in basic interviews with refugees.

Volunteer Profile

• Volunteers must either be college students or college graduates.
• English must be their native language and they have to speak Spanish fluently.
• They must be able to work under stressful conditions and be able to handle the intensive training that they will be given.
• Volunteers must be able to handle and take care of confidential information.
• They must be people who have a passion to help humanity.

Accommodation

The volunteers can stay in a volunteers’ hostel or in a host family.

Requirements

• According to the regulations of the organization the volunteer will need to participate in this program for at least six months.
• The volunteer must have a very extensive knowledge of Spanish.
• The volunteer´s native language must be English.
• The volunteer must complete a phone interview with the members of the organization.

Free Time

Free time is available on weekends. During this time you can do excursions to other parts of the country or stay in town to get to know the community and people a little better.