This research project investigates the experiences of Afghan and Iraqi Local Staff, in particular interpreters, during and post-employment. It also maps and analyses gaps in the rights and protection of Local Staff, including evacuation and resettlement schemes. During their employment, Local Staff often face physical and/or psychological injury due to the nature of their work. They can also face threats because of their association with foreign governments engaged in international interventions.
The research has contributed to shaping, revising and challenging national resettlement policies for Afghan former Local Staff at risk. It has also supported Afghan Local Staff and their advocates, including veterans, lawyers and other civil society actors, to claim protection and rights. Finally, a touring exhibition based on the research, jointly developed with photographer Andy Barnham, has raised public awareness about the experiences of Afghan Local Staff in war and post-conflict relocation.
The broader aspiration of the research is to foster an informed, coordinated, forward-looking approach to the protection and rights of Local Staff during and post-employment in current and future missions. The research aims to inform and engage with policymakers and stakeholders by producing policy-focused and accessible research outputs, often in collaboration with practitioners. Please find selected open access reports and resources below.
This work has been supported by a British Academy Mid-Career Fellowship [MCFSS22\220055], the University of York's ESRC Impact Acceleration Account [grant number ES/X00435X/1], an ESRC IAA Small Award and the Department of Politics and International Relations.
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