The words between us: How well do enumerators understand the terminology used in humanitarian surveys?
Data collection is the foundation of humanitarian programs, informing humanitarian response plans, program design, and safeguarding measures. If the data is inaccurate, humanitarian action may be misconceived, unaccountable, inefficient, and ultimately lacking in impact for those most in need. Language plays a critical but largely overlooked part in data quality. Translators without Borders (TWB) is […]
Language matters: Improving accountability and operational effectiveness in Northeast Nigeria
MSNA language data can help humanitarians communicate better with affected people
When words fail: audio recording for verification in multilingual surveys
Are they listening? The challenges and opportunities of multilingual audio communication in Borno State
People affected by the conflict in linguistically diverse Northeast Nigeria need to give and receive critical information in multiple languages. Options for doing so are currently limited, but rethinking how humanitarians use audio messaging to reach their intended audiences could change that. Research shows that audio is the most widely understood communication format among internally […]
The 2021 multi-sector needs assessments (MSNAs) should collect data on the languages of affected people
The 2021 multi-sector needs assessments (MSNAs) are a critical opportunity to strengthen the evidence base for effective and accountable humanitarian response plans. Humanitarian donors and responders need data on the languages and communication preferences of affected people as a basis for funding and programming decisions. At a minimum, asking one simple question on language can […]
“How can we contribute if we can’t participate?” The accessibility of humanitarian guidance to local and national organisations
PSEA recommendations: Language issues for safeguarding
TWB’s research shows that a language sensitive response to Ebola outbreaks could improve understanding and trust in key messages. It will enhance the accessibility of RCCE and AAP mechanisms, including the reporting of SEAH and support to survivors. Learning from the outbreak in DRC, TWB would recommend the actions to take as part of protection […]
Assessment: effective Ebola communication requires respect and transparency
In the second year of the current Ebola outbreak response in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), people at risk still don’t have clear answers to their questions about the disease in a language they understand. Many local health communicators are themselves confused about the disease prevention and treatment measures they promote. The language, content, […]
Missing the mark? People in Eastern DRC need information on Ebola in a language they understand
People at risk of contracting Ebola need information to keep themselves and their families safe. Information they don’t understand will not help them. They need clear communication in plain, localized language, in a format they understand, and through channels they trust. To learn how to better communicate, TWB conducted the rapid language needs assessment in […]
