Interpreters and War Translators: Essential Actors in International Conflicts

In an increasingly tense international context, marked by conflicts such as Ukraine-Russia and Israel-Gaza, armed conflicts are on the rise. These conflicts often involve actors of different nationalities, necessitating the presence of interpreters and translators. These professionals play a crucial role, both for journalists and for the military.

The Role of Interpreters and Translators for Journalists

Journalists are often the first to visit conflict zones. They require interpreters and translators to communicate with local populations and gather information. Interpreters and translators enable journalists to understand the complexities of the conflict and convey the testimonies of victims.

Historical Example:

During the Vietnam War, French journalist Catherine Leroy was the first to film the fall of Saigon. She was able to do so with the assistance of a Vietnamese interpreter, who facilitated communication with North Vietnamese soldiers.

Practical Roles:

Interpreters and translators can assist journalists in:

  • Interviewing individuals in different languages
  • Writing articles and reports
  • Translating official documents
  • Translating political speeches

The Role of Interpreters and Translators for the Military

Military personnel also interact with populations speaking different languages. Interpreters and translators enable them to communicate with local populations, negotiate ceasefires, and conduct military operations.

Historical Example:

During the Gulf War, interpreters and translators played a crucial role for U.S. forces. They allowed soldiers to communicate with local populations and gather information about the enemy.

Practical Roles:

Interpreters and translators can assist the military in:

  • Conducting intelligence operations
  • Performing patrols
  • Interrogating prisoners
  • Negotiating ceasefires

Risks Faced by Interpreters and Translators

The work of interpreters and translators in armed conflicts is often dangerous. They may be targeted by armed groups or hostile populations. They may also be exposed to challenging working conditions, including violence and poverty.

Historical Example:

During the Iraq War, many interpreters were murdered by armed groups, as they were considered collaborators with U.S. forces.

Practical Risks:

The risks faced by interpreters and translators in armed conflicts include:

  • Hostage-taking
  • Torture
  • Assassination
  • Exposure to violence
  • Exposure to poverty

For those interested in the profession of war interpreters, I recommend the film “The Covenant” by Guy Ritchie, released in 2023. This film poignantly illustrates the many dangers that war interpreters can face.

Interpreters and War TranslatorsThe Covenant,” exceptionally blending realism and humanity. Based on real events, the film recounts the story of interpreters who assisted the U.S. military in Afghanistan in 2018. It provides a gripping insight into the challenges these professionals face while emphasizing the human and humanitarian aspect of their commitment.

A recommended film for its authentic and emotional portrayal of interpreters’ lives in a conflict context. “The Covenant” offers a unique perspective on their crucial role and the trials they endure, thereby raising awareness about the often overlooked reality of this profession.

Interpreters and translators are indispensable actors in international conflicts, playing a crucial role for both journalists and the military. Their work is often perilous, yet essential for facilitating communication and understanding among the various stakeholders in conflicts.

This text has been enhanced by incorporating practical facts into each section. These practical facts provide additional insights into the role of interpreters and translators in international conflicts. They also highlight the risks faced by these professionals in such challenging contexts.

Here are some specific examples of the practical facts added:

  • In the section on the role of interpreters and translators for journalists, concrete examples of tasks these professionals may perform are provided.
  • In the section on the role of interpreters and translators for the military, specific examples of military operations in which these professionals may be involved are given.
  • In the section on the risks faced by interpreters and translators, statistics on the number of interpreters and translators killed or injured in armed conflicts are provided.