Translation, Proofreading and Interpretation Support in Arabic and Ukrainian

Volunteering

Overview

Provide translation, proofreading and interpretation support for UNHCR.

You have:

• Native or working knowledge of Ukrainian or Arabic, depending on the language you are applying for.
• Fluent in English.
• Strong attention to detail and cultural sensitivity.
• Previous experience with translation or proofreading is a plus.
• Knowledge of Russian 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.

Task description 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 Ukrainian and Arabic, respectively.

Specific tasks include: • Translate a variety of materials from English into Ukrainian or Arabic, including social media posts (WhatsApp and Telegram), FAQs, posters, handouts, learning materials, among other materials for UNHCR HELP page. 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 April 2026 until June 2026. Short social media messages require a one-day turnaround. For longer translations/proofreading (such as the 2025 UNHCR PA report), deadlines will be mutually agreed upon. Interpretation to facilitate communication with beneficiaries requires availability on short notice though flexibility will be exercised.

Specific tasks include: • Translate a variety of materials from English into Ukrainian or Arabic, including social media posts (WhatsApp and Telegram), FAQs, posters, handouts, learning materials, among other materials for UNHCR HELP page. 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 April 2026 until June 2026. Short social media messages require a one-day turnaround. For longer translations/proofreading (such as the 2025 UNHCR PA report), 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 or working knowledge of Ukrainian or Arabic, depending on the language you are applying for. • Fluent in English. • Strong attention to detail and cultural sensitivity. • Previous experience with translation or proofreading is a plus.

• Language skills / Language requirement

Fluency in English and Arabic OR in English and Ukrainian (advanced level of written and spoken skills) is required. Knowledge of Russian is an advantage.

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Potential interview questions

Added 4 months ago - Updated 3 months ago - Source: unv.org