Summary of week 1

GIOVANNA: Hi, everyone. During week one, we introduced the specific role of the humanitarian interpreter. Interpreting in humanitarian situations means working with people who find themselves in extremely challenging circumstances. Most refugees live without any time to plan their next steps, which means that they may have little knowledge of the language of the country of asylum. Reliable and accurate interpreting is therefore particularly important in the case of refugees.

JAMIE: In week one of the course, we also looked at who refugees are and discussed their needs once they settle in a new country. We examine the bureaucratic processes that many will go through when they arrive in Europe.

MARTA: We explored refugee’s circumstances and their challenges of working in the refugee sector. While all refugees find themselves in very difficult circumstances, the refugee population is very diverse. Some groups may find being a refugee and the asylum process especially challenging, and so, require extra support. Thus, we discussed the examples of groups like women, children, and victims of trafficking or torture who may need additional consideration, particularly in relation to their interpreting needs.

JAMIE: Finally, we also looked at the challenges that practitioners working with asylum seekers and refugees may encounter. We hope that you’ve found something new and thought provoking in week one of course. We look forward to working with you during the second week.