In their work, interpreters often learn things that are not intended for the public – at supervisory board meetings, merger negotiations or arbitration proceedings. Treating this information confidentially is at the heart of their professional ethos.

Interpreters' professional ethics

Professional ethics describe concrete rules for the proper exercise of a profession – a well-known example is the Hippocratic oath of doctors. Interpreters' professional associations have laid down such rules in a code of professional conduct, covering the exercise of the profession and dealings with clients and colleagues. Three principles are central:

• Confidentiality: interpreters keep all information they receive in the course of their work confidential and do not pass any of it on.
• Impartiality and neutrality: interpreters do not let personal opinions influence the interpretation and support all parties equally.
• Accuracy and fidelity: interpreters render what is said as accurately as possible. They add nothing, omit nothing and make no value judgements.

When confidentiality matters most

At public events, confidentiality naturally plays no role. It becomes decisive at non-public occasions such as:

• meetings of supervisory boards, executive boards, European works councils and other committees
• arbitration proceedings, merger and price negotiations
• internal company events such as kick-offs, training sessions and works meetings
• general meetings of associations and cooperatives
• political talks and state visits

Non-disclosure agreements

For such occasions, non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) are often concluded. They define which information is considered confidential, the obligations of the parties, how long the agreement applies, which exceptions exist and what the consequences of a breach are.

At SIMCONSULT, confidentiality is not only part of the professional ethos but also of our terms and conditions and contracts. We conclude non-disclosure agreements with all our interpreters. On request, we will also sign a non-disclosure agreement with you – before you share any details of your event with us.

Do you have questions about how your information is treated? Contact us.

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