The NY Times among others published articles “Afghan
Interpreters for the US are Left Stranded and at Risk”. (See http://www.nytimes.com/2013/04/15/world/asia/american-visa-delays-put-safety-out-of-afghan-interpreters-reach.html?ref=todayspaper
which is also the photo source). The essence of the article is that the pull
out of US forces from Afghanistan will leave many who have helped the US
efforts in deadly peril.
As MISO professionals we are keenly aware of the need to
work through people who understand the AO, its people and their culture. Often
the best and most credible hires are local nationals who have make the
dangerous decision to work for the US or coalition forces. They are paid well
by local standards as long as they serve. They also earn the enmity of
determined foes like the Taliban, who, unlike the US forces, will remain in
Afghanistan for years to come.
Afghanistan is by no means the first place where this has
happened. Interpreters are often overlooked as the eagerness of withdrawal
embraces those who are on their way home. Many of these valued employees seek
to enter the US as a way to not only bolster their security, but perhaps find a
new and better life for them and their families.
Regrettably this is a small percentage of the valued
workforce.
Advances in machine translation and ‘reachback’ support may
help in some instances, but the need for a trusted interpreter who can not only
be the eyes and ears of the MISO force, but who can add credibility to our
messages is a critical element for success. We owe it to our valued allies to
think about their future before they sacrifice their present.
1 comment:
It's sad to see this happen again. If I recall correctly, translators in Iraq were welcomed to the U.S. only after many of them had lost their lives as the unit they supported rolled out of country.
Post a Comment