Whether in crisis situations or in development projects, effective communication is a key component of international cooperation. Most Non-Governmental Organizations and agencies of the United Nations system rely on language interpretation services to carry out their humanitarian missions successfully. Without clear communication supported by simultaneous or consecutive language interpretation, efforts to deliver medical aid, implement educational projects or provide legal assistance may be less effective.
The role of language interpretation for Indigenous Peoples
Indigenous Peoples face unique challenges due to their geographic location, ancestral customs and the language barriers they often must overcome. These gaps limit effective communication with international NGOs that intend to provide humanitarian aid, non-profit organizations and other stakeholders that could provide additional support. As a result, Indigenous Peoples often suffer from a lack of direct access to vital services such as medical care, legal assistance, education or economic development programs.
AngloServicios’ interpreters have been hired on numerous occasions to collaborate with major United Nations Agencies to provide simultaneous interpretation services and to serve as a bridge of communication between Indigenous Peoples and international bodies. In these contexts, and mainly during donor visits, the fundamental role of AngloServicios’ interpreters is to ensure that communication between the parties of development projects and humanitarian aid is effective so that the aid reaches those who need it the most.
For the past fourteen years, we have provided simultaneous interpretation services in language combinations of Spanish, English, French, Portuguese, German and Russian. AngloServicios strives to contribute towards a fluent dialogue between representatives of NGOs or non-profit organizations and Indigenous Peoples. Simultaneous interpretation services have been provided in meetings with diplomats, training workshops and field visits, where language has ceased to be a barrier.
A professional and culturally aware approach
AngloServicios understands that simultaneous or consecutive interpretation is not only a technical and mechanical task, but conversely a part of social responsibility. Our interpreters are highly competent in the language combinations in which they work, as well as in the cultural and social sensitivities of Indigenous Peoples. These qualities enable interpreters to support international experts more effectively. This approach also helps us to convey messages with sensitivity and respect, contributing to the creation of an environment where international cooperation is more positive.
On several occasions, the advantage of language interpretation has allowed indigenous leaders to express their concerns and needs more clearly so that international and humanitarian aid organizations can adapt their programs and respond appropriately to the challenges faced by Indigenous Peoples. Thus, it is important to highlight the advantage of hiring interpreters who understand the complexity of multicultural contexts.
Long-term impact on Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities
The positive impact of language interpretation is not limited to the transmission of one language message to another. It has the potential to make a noticeable change in the way Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities interact with other stakeholders. When effective communication is achieved, links between stakeholders are strengthened, and new partnerships and development opportunities are implemented.
Continued access to language interpretation as a form of effective communication enables Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities to participate in global discussions on crucial issues such as climate change, the conservation of their lands and natural resources, as well as the recognition and exercise of their ancestral rights. Active involvement also ensures that Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities are recipients of international cooperation and humanitarian aid, as well as agents of change on issues that affect them directly.
AngloServicios is proud to have participated in this type of processes by facilitating communication between Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities and international organizations, which contributes to ensure that aid reaches the places where it is most needed.
AngloServicios’ simultaneous or consecutive interpretation and translation services have proven to make communication more effective, inclusive and culturally appropriate. Contact us to help your projects benefit from the advantage of language interpretation as an effective communication tool.