Community Interpreter and Its Importance in Human Rights

A linguist or a professional in communications? A Community Interpreter can be categorized as both, although it's more than that. 

Considering the context in which these professionals work, there is a “social factor” that makes this job essential and very noble, especially in the current flux of migrations, refugees, civil wars and various international human rights crises.

Let's explore the profile of this professional, their tasks and risks, and why it is crucial for upholding human rights.

Understanding What Community Interpreters Does‍

You may be familiar with interpreters in general, who work in conferences and business. Unlike them, Community Interpreters work directly with people in their day-to-day interactions, especially in dialogue with public services. That’s why they are also known as public service interpreters.  

This professional’s work involves facilitating communication in community-based settings. They essentially act as a bridge between service providers and non-native speakers. This includes spoken languages and sign-languages too!

In which context are interpreters necessary?

The settings for community interpreting are diverse and often involve sensitive and critical situations where accurate communication is fundamental. 

This can include interpreting for patients during medical appointments, translating legal advice for immigrants, assisting parents in understanding their children's educational needs, and more.

A few examples:

• Education
• Health care 
• Job training
• Public housing and social services
• Refugee and resettlement centers
• Immigration offices
• Legal settings
• Transportation services
  

Requirements for a Community Interpreter Profile

Community interpreters must be fluent in at least two languages and possess a deep understanding of the cultural contexts of the languages they interpret. This cultural competence ensures that the interpretation is not just a literal translation but a meaningful and contextually appropriate communication.

They frequently work with people in vulnerable situations, which require soft skills such as interpersonal intelligence, adaptability to varying local conditions, tolerance and sensibility. They must navigate complex and emotionally charged situations while maintaining professionalism and neutrality.

Why is neutrality important? Because the goal is to ensure that all parties understand each other clearly and fully, which can involve explaining cultural nuances that might affect communication. 

This role also requires an ethical posture. Confidentiality is an important value in this job.

What are the Challenges of the profession?‍

There is often a lack of recognition and formal training programs for Community Interpreters, leading to a lack of qualified professionals. 

Additionally, the emotional impact of working in high-stress environments can be significant and this can drive some talents away.

The role of Community Interpreter in Human Rights

These professionals are intermediaries with the mission of guaranteeing access to services and rights that might otherwise be inaccessible due to communication gaps. They are there exactly to fill these gaps between people, i.e, uniting purposes! 

The tasks performed by Community Interpreters can significantly impact individuals' lives. How can these impacts be felt? Let’s look at some examples.

1. Access to Healthcare
   

Patients who cannot communicate effectively with healthcare providers may struggle to describe their symptoms, understand diagnoses, or follow treatment plans. 

Community interpreters ensure that these patients receive the same quality of care as those who speak the dominant language, upholding their right to health.

2. Legal Rights and Justice
   

In legal settings, the risks are often high. Non-native speakers facing legal issues, whether criminal or civil, need to understand legal proceedings, their rights, and the implications of any legal advice or decisions. 

This professional provides essential services in courts, law enforcement interactions, and legal consultations, ensuring that individuals' legal rights are protected.

Legal consultants can also assist individuals in obtaining unclaimed money from class action settlements if they are entitled to compensation, but previously lacked the means or knowledge to claim it.

3. Education
   

Community interpreters help non-native speaking parents engage with their children's education, understand school policies, and participate in meetings. This engagement is crucial for the academic success and well-being of students. 

4. Social Life Integration
   

The impact here contributes to the empowerment of marginalized communities by providing them with the tools to communicate effectively in their new environments. 

This empowerment promotes better integration, reduces social isolation, and promotes equality. When individuals can access services and understand their rights, they are better equipped to participate fully in society.

5. Cultural Preservation
   

By acknowledging and respecting linguistic and cultural diversity, community interpreting helps to protect the cultural rights of individuals. This respect is fundamental to maintaining the dignity and identity of people from diverse backgrounds, which is a core principle of human rights.

6. Employment
   

Employment is another critical area where community interpreters are essential. Job seekers who do not speak the dominant language need interpreters to understand job applications, interviews, and workplace policies. Employees require clear communication to understand their rights, responsibilities, and safety protocols at work. 

Community interpreters facilitate these interactions, ensuring that non-native speakers have fair access to employment opportunities and workplace rights.

Balancing the challenges and rewards of this profession, it’s not difficult to conclude that recognizing it as essential for human rights and providing appropriate remuneration and resources can attract more individuals to this field. This will lead to a scenario where more people are able to communicate their needs and rights effectively.