The Stream

‘Refugee Phrasebook’ aims to ease transition

Volunteers translate 30+ languages to support refugees.

As refugees pour into Europe, a group of volunteers in Germany has launched a ‘‘Refugee Phrasebook’’ to help new arrivals overcome language barriers.

Source: ‘Useful German words and phrases for refugees who just arrived + helpers’ (HANDOUT)

The resource translates basic terms in more than 30 languages to help refugees deal with a variety of issues such as seeking asylum and medical attention.

Source: ‘Juridical Phrases for Refugees’ (HANDOUT)​

Source: Refugee Phrasebook (HANDOUT)​

The project is collaborative with volunteers who speak multiple languages contributing. A Wikibooks page has printable versions of the books using images alongside text.

Source: Refugee Phrasebook (HANDOUT)​

Volunteers are requesting help with translations and sharing more information via Facebook.

What do you think of this initiative? Have you seen other projects aimed at easing refugee transitions?