Just a few words about an organisation that we at QuickSilver Translate are big fans of: Translators without Borders. Translators without Borders (TWB) is a non-profit organisation offering language and translation support for humanitarian and development agencies, and other non-profit organisations.
“It is both amazing and also very comforting and inspiring to see people donate their time and skills to defend the principles of action and the ideas of humanitarian assistance.”
Olivier Bluteau, Field Manager for Doctors without Borders
In crisis situations, such as the European Refugee crisis or the conflict in Yemen, the language barrier that often exists between aid workers and the local population can potentially cause very serious problems.
Translators without Borders was founded, as Traducteurs sans Frontières, in 1993 by Lori Thicke to help address this. As well as to disseminate information in crisis-hit areas and provide free translations for NGOs. Translators without Borders has worked with NGOs and non-profit organisations like Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders), Médecins du Monde, and Action Against Hunger and Handicap International. TWB translates about one million words a year.
TWB’s stated aim is to “close the language gaps that hinder critical humanitarian and international development efforts worldwide.” By maintaining a global network of professional translators, TWB helps non-profit organisations overcome communication barriers; increasing access to critical information and services. Also, while “fostering a climate of understanding, respect, and dignity in times of great need.”
Can you help?
TWB needs volunteer professional translators of all language combinations in order to meet the growing translation needs of NGOs. In particular, they need people to work with these combinations:
- English > French, Spanish, Portuguese
- French > English, Spanish, Portuguese
- Spanish > French, English, Portuguese
- Portuguese > French, English, Spanish
And are looking for translators specialised in the following areas:
- Medical
- Legal
- Logistical
Do visit their website for more information about how you can contribute (time or donations) and help support this outstanding organisation.
Further information
The language factor: lessons for communication and community engagement from Translators without Borders’ experience
by Mia Marzotto
