Today, on International Translation Day, we reflect on how this work has been brought to the attention of the world by quoting the UN statements on this topic. International Translation Day is meant as an opportunity to pay tribute to the work of language professionals, which plays an important role in bringing nations together, facilitating dialogue, understanding and … [Read more...]
A quiet revolution in diplomatic interpretation
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A story of innovation at the UN as told by the sidekick Sheila Shermet One Saturday morning in January 2007 the phone rang as I emerged from the shower. I ran to answer. I had only been in Geneva for about six months, having transferred from Vienna where I served for almost five years. The Chief of the English booth was on the other end. "Would you like to go on mission with … [Read more...]
Journey of a recent graduate
Last month I attended the first MIIS FORUM at the Middlebury Institute of International Studies in Monterey and met all kinds of interesting people, including Dr. Yun-hyang Lee, Chief of the Interpreting Division and Trump's Korean interpreter. But more on that later. The purpose of the FORUM was to bring consumers of T&I services into the same room as the educators of our … [Read more...]
Interview with Mr Ian Newton, ILO Chief Interpreter – By Maha El-Metwally
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Interview with Mr Ian Newton, ILO Chief Interpreter By Maha El-Metwally The position of chief interpreter was one of the oldest at Oriental courts. At the Sultan’s court in Constantinople the position of baştercüman (grand, chief, or court interpreter) was one of the most highly respected court and government offices.1 Nowadays, chief interpreters do not work for … [Read more...]
United Nations Interpreters: An insider’s view – Part 4
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In the fourth and final part of Sheila’s bird’s eye view of what it’s like to be a UN interpreter, she addresses mastering sight translation of complex written speeches and practicing interpreting “densely drafted speech.” Just another technique UN interpreters develop in their training, which requires tons of practice. I hope you’ve enjoyed this series of articles about … [Read more...]