Professional ethics of interpreters

Work ethics is generally understood as the careful exercise and appreciation of professional activity. In contrast, professional ethics describes concrete ethical standards, rules and criteria for the appropriate exercise of a profession. A well-known example of this is the Hippocratic oath of doctors. We often also speak of work ethics or professional ethics.

In the course of their professional practice, interpreters often have access to confidential information or support communication in difficult situations. Examples include supervisory board meetings, arbitration proceedings or merger negotiations between companies, staff interviews or doctor-patient discussions and, last but not least, political and diplomatic talks, government consultations or state visits.

The areas in which interpreters are used make it understandable that interpreters and their professional associations also have or adopt professional ethics. Sometimes professional ethics are also referred to as professional codes of ethics or codes of honour. These professional ethics or codes of ethics may include rules for practising the profession, dealing with clients and dealing with colleagues.

Confidentiality, impartiality and neutrality, accuracy and fidelity.

The points mentioned in the heading are the most important part of the professional ethics for interpreters and should be emphasised:

• Impartiality and neutrality: interpreters must be impartial and neutral in their work. This means that they do not allow personal opinions or preferences to influence their interpretation. They assist all parties equally and objectively.
• Accuracy and fidelity: Interpreters are obliged to reproduce information as accurately as possible. They must not add or omit anything and must not express opinions or value judgements.
• Confidentiality: Interpreters have a duty to maintain the confidentiality of the information of which they become aware in the course of their work. They must not disclose personal or confidential information.

Do you still have questions about the professional ethics of interpreters? Do you need a quotation for your specific interpreting needs? Contact us! We look forward to it.