Challenges in Interpretation Services for Syrian Refugees

Accurate and accessible interpretation can mean the difference between integration and isolation for refugees. But what specific challenges do Syrian refugees in Halle, Germany face when relying on interpretation services? Malek Al Refaai examines the role and quality of these services in the context of Syrian refugee migration since 2015. Based on a mixed-methods approach including interviews, questionnaires, and focus groups, he analyzes the experiences of both refugees and interpreters in Halle (Saale). The findings reveal significant communication problems in legal, health, social, educational, and financial areas. Refugees often reported misinterpretations caused by inadequate training, cultural biases, or dialect differences. Even professional interpreters struggled with technical terminology and role clarity. This book offers practical recommendations: increased professionalism, targeted training and certification, as well as cultural sensitivity in interpreter selection. It offers valuable insights for policymakers, institutions, and future research.

Malek Al Refaai, born in Syria in 1987, holds a BA in English Language and Literature, an MA in Translation, and a PhD in Linguistics and Translation from Leipzig University, Germany. Since 2017, he has lived in Halle, working as a certified translator for government institutions, courts, and the Federal Office for Migration, as well as teaching English and German. His academic background and professional experience inform his research on interpretation services for Syrian refugees.