Cultural Mediator Arabic-French Speaker

We are looking for a Cultural Mediator (Arabic-French speaker) to join a roving team in Lampedusa, supporting newly arrived individuals at disembarkation points and hotspots. Working closely with a Protection and GBV Expert, the mediator will provide cultural mediation, direct support, and information sessions, with a focus on identifying Persons with Specific Needs (PSN), particularly GBV survivors, and facilitating their referral to IRC/UNHCR teams for follow-up.

The role also includes contributing to data collection, protection monitoring, and assessment activities.

Major Responsibilities

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: 

• Conduct outreach in disembarkation areas and the Lampedusa hotspot to identify needs and vulnerabilities, focusing on GBV survivors.
• Provide Arabic/French cultural mediation during group and one-on-one information sessions, especially for GBV survivors.
• Facilitate group activities in the Safe Space to build trust, provide GBV information, and support emotional well-being through a survivor-centered approach.
• Ensure protection presence at disembarkation points and the hotspot, coordinating with UNHCR for timely interventions.
• Deliver accurate information on rights, asylum access, and available services, prioritizing women, children, and families.
• Assist in case management, timely referrals, and support for vulnerabilities, including GBV disclosures and urgent needs like reproductive health services.
• Contribute to protection monitoring, service mapping, and adapting informational materials.
• Provide psychological first aid (PFA) and attend capacity-building activities as needed.
• Perform other tasks as assigned by the line manager.

Reporting Lines

Position directly reports to: Protection and GBV Expert, IRC Italy

Expected Travel 

This position will be based in Lampedusa.

Requirements:

• Fluency in spoken and written Arabic and French, with a good command of Italian.
• Strong experience in cultural mediation/interpretation.
• Proven experience in delivering information sessions to migrants and asylum seekers.
• In-depth knowledge of the Italian legal system related to international protection procedures.
• Experience working with GBV survivors and (presumed) victims of trafficking.
• Training or experience in delivering psychological first aid (PFA) and basic psychosocial support.
• Familiarity with survivor-centered, trauma-informed, and child-centered approaches.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and digital tools for data entry, research, and problem-solving.
• Strong teamwork, problem-solving abilities, and a proactive approach.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Sensitivity to political and cultural contexts, demonstrating patience, tact, and diplomacy.

Good to have:

Valid driver’s license and access to an insured personal vehicle.

Standard of Professional Conduct: IRC and IRC workers must adhere to the values and principles outlined in the IRC Way – our Code of Conduct. These are Integrity, Service, Accountability and Equality. In accordance with these values, the IRC operates and enforces policies on Beneficiary Protection from Exploitation and Abuse, Child Safeguarding, Harassment-Free Workplace, Fiscal Integrity, Anti-Retaliation, Combating Trafficking in Persons and several others.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusivity: IRC is committed to building a diverse organization and a climate of inclusivity. We strongly encourage applications from candidates who can demonstrate that they can contribute to this goal. 

Equal Opportunity Employer: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.

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