Interpreting in the context of refugee migration: emerging professional challenges and needs

Abstract

The research is implemented within the framework of the RUDN university participation in the Russia-wide 5-100 project. The current importance of the present research rests on the fact that despite long-standing traditions and intensive research work in the field of interpretation studies, the Academia and Industry still make first steps to consider urgent needs in the area of language service provision to refugees in the migration crisis zones. The research aims to explore the interpreters' needs that produce specific challenges in the context of their work with refugees in the border crossing and temporary settlement zones with the view to consider the concept and constituent components of interpreter's bespoke training for refugee crisis settings. The research methodology applies the qualitative analysis and rests on theoretical and empirical activities. Materials for theoretical analysis involve publications on the issues under study. Empirical studies encompass observations and case studies of concrete situations outlined by professionals working with refugees in Greece, Italy, Germany, the Yugoslav Successor States, and Russia. The research also includes cluster and factor types of analysis to identify aspects of training and ensure quality when interpreting in the migration crisis settings. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences is used for data procession. The research findings allow for drafting preliminary recommendations on adequate administrative and training tools regarding interpreters' activities in refugees' transit/border crossing zones and refugee camps.

A pilot study of language and culture mediation in medical interpreting at border crossing points in Moscow, Russia

“…Therefor the present research elaborates on earlier statement regarding specific needs for interpreter's competences in the settings that go outside the standardized patterns of communication a due to social situation emergency (Atabekova et al., 2017) and shed new light on the issues under study. Thus, Di Izabel E. T. de V. Souza (2016) provided opinions of 458 interpreter practitioners from 25 different countries to conclude that intercultural mediation goes beyond interpreters, and requires the attention of other related stakeholders (educators, researchers, administrators, and policy makers).…”

Academia´s thoughts and graduates’ opinions of education at university degree for translators and interpreters: is there a need for revisiting both concept and practice?

“…The current state of affairs confirms that interpreters and translators turn out to bear much stronger social responsibilities. Today T&Is engage in public services on a much larger scale than some ten years ago, often act on the front lines of emergency situations, take part in problem-solving for global migration issues, stand to lend a helping hand in local or regional conflict zones (Atabekova et al, 2017). On the other hand, the worldwide digital development of the smart society also contributes to changing the profile of translator or interpreter's job, as well.…”