Translation and Interpretation Support in Pashto and Dari languages
Provide translation and interpretation support in Pashto and Dari.
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Overview
Provide translation and interpretation support in Pashto and Dari.
You have:
- Native knowledge of Dari and Pashto.
- Fluent in English.
- Strong attention to detail and cultural sensitivity.
- Previous experience with translation or proofreading is a plus.
- Fluency in Dari and Pashto (advanced level of written and spoken skills) is required.
- Knowledge of Turkish and Urdu is an advantage.
Contract
This is a UNV contract. More about UNV contracts.
UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, is a global organization dedicated to protecting people forced to flee their homes due to conflict and persecution. Operating in over 130 countries, UNHCR provides life-saving assistance, safeguards fundamental human rights, and helps displaced individuals rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.
Since the full-scale escalation of the war in Ukraine in February 2022, Bulgaria has played a vital role as an external EU border country, receiving large numbers of displaced persons. As of January 2026, over 3.5 million refugees from Ukraine have entered Bulgaria, with more than 225 011 individuals granted Temporary Protection (TP). Currently, there are 83 675 valid TP registrations.
Under its mandate, UNHCR leads and coordinates the Inter-Agency Refugee Response for the Ukraine Situation in Bulgaria, in alignment with the Regional Refugee Response Plan (RRP). This coordinated effort is carried out in close collaboration with the Bulgarian government and humanitarian partners.
Beyond the Ukraine crisis, Bulgaria remains a key entry point for asylum seekers from other conflict-affected regions. In 2025, the State Agency for Refugees (SAR) registered 3,895 asylum seekers, primarily from Morocco, Syria and Afghanistan.
While current figures on the Syrian refugee population in Bulgaria remain fluid, challenges such as limited integration prospects and socio-economic barriers continue to affect long-term inclusion. The sustained presence of Syrian and Afghan nationals underscores Bulgaria’s ongoing role in broader European refugee protection efforts.
UNHCR supports the Bulgarian government in aligning national policies and legislation with international and EU standards, promoting a comprehensive, multi-stakeholder, whole-of-society approach to refugee response.
The UN Volunteers will contribute to UNHCR’s communication and community engagement efforts by providing accurate and culturally appropriate translations and proofreading of different texts from English into Pashto and Dari, respectively.
Specific tasks include: • Translate a variety of written materials from English into Pashto and Dari, including social media posts (WhatsApp and Telegram), FAQs, posters, handouts, learning materials, among other materials. o Expected workload: 4 posts for social media (will be shared in WhatsApp and Telegram channels), 1 post for UNHCR Help Page per week. • Proofread and edit existing translations to ensure they are clear, accurate, and consistent. o Expected workload: 4 posts per week. • Assist with live correspondence and real-time interpretation for beneficiaries who have contacted UNHCR. o Expected workload: 2 people per week. • Adapt translations to be culturally sensitive and appropriate for the target audience. • Maintain confidentiality and follow UNHCR's communication guidelines.
Tasks will be assigned based on need from May 2026 until August 2026. Short social media messages require a one-day turnaround. For longer translations/proofreading, deadlines will be mutually agreed upon. Interpretation to facilitate communication with beneficiaries requires availability on short notice though flexibility will be exercised.
Required experience (Required education level, Area(s) of specialization)
• Native knowledge of Dari and Pashto. • Fluent in English. • Strong attention to detail and cultural sensitivity. • Previous experience with translation or proofreading is a plus.
Language
• Language skills / Language requirement
Fluency in English, Dari and Pashto (advanced level of written and spoken skills) is required. Knowledge of Turkish and Urdu is an advantage.
Potential interview questions
| Can you describe your experience in translating materials from English to Dari or Pashto? | This question assesses your translation experience and proficiency in the languages required. | Share specific examples of your work, focusing on types of materials you translated and the context. |
| How do you ensure cultural sensitivity in your translations? | Interviewers want to know your approach to cultural nuances in translation work. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| What tools or resources do you use for proofreading your translations? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| Describe a time when you had to adapt a translation based on feedback. How did you handle it? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| How do you prioritize tasks when faced with multiple translation assignments? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| Give an example of a challenging translation or interpretation situation you've faced. How did you resolve it? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| What steps do you take to maintain confidentiality while working with sensitive texts? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| How proficient are you in using social media for communication, particularly in Urdu and Dari? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
Added 2 months ago
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Updated 1 month ago
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Source:
unv.org
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