Top 4 Ethical Issues in Translation

Professional translation is a challenging job. Not only does it require specialized skills and knowledge to understand, read, and write in more than one language, but also demands a lot of practice and training to deliver accuracy and precision.

While the translation industry has been growing at a greater pace than before, the expansion has brought with it  ethical challenges. Owing to this, it has become imperative for translators to be well versed with the professional ethics and industry practices to stay ahead of their competition. Let’s take a look at the top ethical issues and how translators can manage them effectively.

1.     Linguistic Integrity

Linguistic integrity is the core of translation. This means, translators are responsible to deliver impartial and accurate translation services to convey the message as the author intends it to reach the audience.

Linguistic experts believe that linguistic integrity cannot be achieved through word-for-word translation. However, translators must be able to use specific cultural expressions and terms to convey the same meaning, register, and impact.

2.     Maintaining Confidentiality

Companies expect their information to be held in strict confidentiality. This includes the information that has been conveyed for the purpose of translation.

Considering this, it is important for translators to handle business documents like financial statements,  and safeguard the project details with utmost care to avoid leakage of information. Even if the translator needs to consult with a colleague or a mentor to comprehend a complex sentence or text, he/she must make sure that no confidential information is disclosed.

3.     Qualification and Capabilities

Professional translators need to be honest and truthful about their qualification, experience and capabilities to meet the needs of their clients. In order for this, your list of skills must always reflect true expertise and real client relationships. This may not only help you acquire more specific projects that suit your interests, but also allow you to build trust and long term relationship with your customers.

4.     Abide by the Agreement

Using a contract or other agreement tools can help you avoid misunderstandings and potential problems during and even after the project. The agreement may comprise of a simple email, a formal contract, or a telephone call. No matter what instrument you use, make sure that the agreement is fair and acceptable to both the parties. Once you have agreed to the terms and conditions of the transaction, you are required to abide by it.

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