International Translation Day (ITD) is celebrated annually on September 30 to honor the invaluable role of translators and language professionals in connecting people, fostering global peace, and promoting mutual understanding.
Language is a powerful tool, and without translators, our world would be far less connected, both culturally and diplomatically. This day serves as a reminder of the crucial role these professionals play in enabling international dialogue and cooperation.
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History
The idea of celebrating translators globally began with the Fédération Internationale des Traducteurs (FIT) in 1991. The organization wanted to highlight the significance of translators who act as bridges between cultures, allowing for smoother communication across linguistic divides. Since its inception, International Translation Day has grown in importance, gaining attention not only from professional bodies but also from the general public.
In 2017, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) officially adopted September 30 as International Translation Day through resolution A/RES/71/288, further solidifying its importance on the global stage.
The UN Resolution and Official Recognition
On May 24, 2017, the UN General Assembly recognized the need to honor translators for their essential role in international peace, security, and cooperation.
The resolution acknowledged that translation and interpretation are vital in enhancing dialogue and understanding between nations.
By officially declaring September 30 as International Translation Day, the UN ensured that the contributions of language professionals are celebrated worldwide.
Why September 30? The Significance of St. Jerome
The date was chosen to coincide with the feast of St. Jerome, who is widely regarded as the patron saint of translators.
Born in the 4th century, St. Jerome made one of the most influential contributions to the world of translation by rendering the Bible into Latin from Greek and Hebrew manuscripts.
His work not only preserved key religious texts but also set a high standard for future translators. His dedication to accurate translation made him a central figure in the translation world, and the celebration of International Translation Day on his feast day is a fitting tribute to his legacy.
International Translation Day Theme 2024
The theme for this year’s International Translation Day (ITD), “Translation: An Art Worth Protecting,” underscores the crucial role of translation in our global society.
This theme emphasizes the importance of recognizing translations as original creative works that deserve copyright protection under the Berne Convention.
By acknowledging the artistry involved in translation, we can better appreciate the skill and dedication that translators bring to their craft.
Translators serve as the bridge between cultures, enabling communication and understanding across diverse languages. They are not just converting words; they are conveying meaning, emotion, and cultural nuances.
As creators of derivative works, translators have fought to secure their moral rights, which include being credited for their work, maintaining control over any modifications, and receiving fair compensation.
Protecting these fundamental rights is essential for ensuring a sustainable future for translation professionals. It also helps preserve the historical significance of translation as an art form.
By valuing and safeguarding the contributions of translators, we can enhance the visibility and appreciation of their work, ensuring that the art of translation continues to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.
The Role of Translators in the Modern World
Translators play a vital role in our world, often working behind the scenes to facilitate smooth communication in diverse areas such as business, diplomacy, technology, and media. Without their expertise, international collaborations would face significant challenges, making it difficult for crucial ideas and innovations to transcend language barriers.
From scientific research to entertainment, translators enable people from different linguistic backgrounds to engage with and appreciate a wealth of knowledge and creativity. They ensure that vital information is accessible, fostering understanding and collaboration among individuals and communities worldwide. By bridging these gaps, translators not only enhance communication but also contribute to the global exchange of ideas that enrich our collective experience.
The Role of Translation at the United Nations
The United Nations (UN) boasts one of the largest teams of language professionals globally, highlighting the significance of translation in its operations. At the UN, translation is essential for making sure that all official documents and communications are accessible in the six official languages: Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, and Spanish. This multilingual approach enables effective communication among member states and promotes inclusivity in discussions and decision-making.
In addition to these six languages, some core documents are also translated into German, further expanding access to important information. By providing translations, the UN ensures that critical messages and resolutions reach a diverse audience, fostering international cooperation and understanding. This commitment to translation exemplifies the organization’s dedication to bridging cultural and linguistic divides on a global scale.
Language professionals at the UN include:
- Translators
- Editors
- Interpreters
- Précis-writers
- Verbatim reporters
The Importance of Language Specialists at the UN
These language specialists play a crucial role in ensuring that communication between member states is seamless. They are responsible for accurately conveying international treaties, resolutions, and agreements, ensuring that all parties fully understand the terms and implications.
By providing precise translations, these professionals facilitate collaboration and foster trust among nations, making it possible for diverse countries to work together effectively. Their expertise is vital for maintaining clear dialogue in a complex global landscape, ultimately supporting the mission of the UN to promote peace and cooperation worldwide.
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights: A Record-Breaking Document
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) holds the Guinness World Record for being the most translated document in the world, available in over 500 languages. This remarkable achievement highlights the crucial role of translation in disseminating vital ideas, such as human rights, to every corner of the globe.
The extensive translation of the UDHR showcases the indispensable work of language professionals in making essential global concepts accessible to all people, regardless of their linguistic background. By ensuring that this foundational document reaches a diverse audience, translators help foster understanding and advocacy for human rights worldwide. Their efforts underscore the importance of communication in promoting equality, justice, and respect for all individuals, reinforcing the idea that everyone deserves access to fundamental rights and freedoms.
The Impact of Technology on Translation
In recent years, machine translation tools such as Google Translate and various AI-powered applications have significantly transformed the landscape of translation. While these tools have made basic translation more accessible to the general public, they cannot fully substitute for the expertise of human translators.
Human translators play a critical role in ensuring that cultural nuances and idiomatic expressions are accurately conveyed, something that machines often struggle to achieve. Language is deeply intertwined with culture, and understanding the subtleties of communication requires a human touch. Translators bring their knowledge, experience, and intuition to the table, allowing them to navigate the complexities of language that automated tools may overlook. Their skills remain essential for producing high-quality translations that resonate with readers and maintain the intended meaning.
Conclusion
International Translation Day is more than just a celebration of language professionals; it is a tribute to the power of language itself. Translators are essential in building bridges between cultures, fostering international understanding, and contributing to peace and development worldwide.
As we honor these dedicated individuals, it’s important to recognize the broader significance of clear and accurate communication in our increasingly interconnected world. Effective translation enables collaboration, encourages the exchange of ideas, and promotes mutual respect among diverse communities. By appreciating the vital role that translators play, we also acknowledge the fundamental necessity of communication in creating a harmonious global society.
FAQs
The theme is “Translation: An Art Worth Protecting,” emphasizing how translation showcases and preserves diverse human experiences.
St. Jerome is celebrated for translating the Bible into Latin and is recognized for his contributions to the field of translation.
The UN honors its language professionals and raises awareness about the importance of translation in global diplomacy.
It is the most translated document globally, with translations into over 500 languages, representing universal human rights.
While technology has made translation more accessible, human translators are still essential for ensuring accuracy and cultural context.
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