The number of asylum seekers making the perilous journey across the English Channel by boat has risen considerably in the UK. Among these asylum seekers are from Timor and Chad region who speak Masalit and Tetum languages from regions afflicted by violence and economic hardship.
Traveling to Britain is fraught with danger. Asylum seekers often navigate hazardous routes, traveling from Africa, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia into continental Europe, eventually reaching northern France. Driven by the pursuit of safety and a better life in the UK, many embark on the risky voyage across the English Channel in overcrowded, sometimes unseaworthy boats.
Masalit speakers, primarily from Sudan’s Darfur region, flee severe violence, persecution, and poor living conditions. The ongoing conflict in Darfur, marked by widespread displacement and human rights abuses, has forced many Masalit people to seek refuge elsewhere. Tetum speakers, mainly from Timor-Leste, are motivated by political instability, economic hardship, and poverty. Despite Timor-Leste’s relative stability post-independence, economic struggles and occasional violence continue to drive some people to migrate.
Upon arrival in the UK, asylum seekers face a lengthy and complex asylum process. While their claims are reviewed—a process that can take months or even years—they are housed in temporary accommodations. During this period, asylum seekers are prohibited from working and must survive on a modest government allowance.
Masalit and Tetum speakers encounter significant challenges in integrating into British society. Language barriers, cultural differences, the trauma of their journeys, and previous experiences often impede their assimilation. Community organisations and support groups play a crucial role in facilitating their adjustment by offering language classes, legal assistance, and social support.
However, finding qualified and experienced interpreters is a major hurdle in the asylum process. Accurate interpretation is vital for asylum seekers to navigate legal proceedings and effectively communicate their experiences. There is often a shortage of interpreters proficient in less common languages like Tetum and Masalit. The reliance on untrained and inexperienced interpreters can lead to miscommunication and misunderstandings, potentially affecting the outcome of asylum claims. Beyond interpretation, the written translation of important documents is equally critical. These documents include legal forms, evidence submissions, and other essential paperwork that must be accurately translated to ensure the asylum seekers’ stories and needs are correctly conveyed and understood.
As we acknowledge the profound difficulties these individuals face, it is imperative to recognise the critical role that accurate interpretation and translation play in their lives. By supporting asylum seekers through comprehensive language services and robust community support, we can help them navigate the complex asylum process and begin rebuilding their lives. In doing so, we not only fulfil our humanitarian obligations but also enrich our society with diverse cultures and perspectives.
