Translation as Social Justice: Translation Policies and Practices in Non-Governmental Organisations

This book explores the translation policies and practices of international non-governmental organizations (INGOs) and the role of activist researchers in contributing to these debates. It highlights the duality of translation and interpreting in INGOs, traditionally undervalued and under-resourced but essential for ensuring equal access to information and political representation. Drawing on ethnographic fieldwork and interview data, the book offers insights into INGOs' translation and interpreting planning and critically reflects on the experiences of activist researchers. It encourages a new interdisciplinary research agenda to raise the profile of language and translation in humanitarian and development contexts.

Format: Hardback
Length: 182 pages
Publication date: 30 September 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate world of translation policies and practices within international non-governmental organizations (INGOs). It raises critical questions about how translation can effectively redress power dynamics between INGOs and the communities they work with, while also exploring the crucial role of activist researchers in contributing to these ongoing debates.

The volume examines the dual nature of translation and interpreting within INGOs, often overlooked and under-resourced, yet recognized as a powerful tool in upholding their commitment to equal access to information, dialogue, and political representation. Through extensive ethnographic fieldwork and in-depth interviews with a diverse range of INGOs, the author offers unique insights into the planning, implementation, and challenges of translation and interpreting within these organizations.

Furthermore, Tesseur critically reflects on her own experiences as an activist researcher and the ways in which she ensures that social justice efforts are fully reflected in her working practices. The book encourages a new interdisciplinary research agenda that seeks to elevate the profile of language and translation in humanitarian and development contexts, as well as fostering cross-disciplinary dialogue in scholarship on these critical issues.

With its rich insights and thought-provoking analysis, this book will appeal to scholars and researchers in translation and interpreting studies, sociolinguistics, development studies, and international relations. It provides valuable contributions to our understanding of the complexities and challenges faced by INGOs in their efforts to promote social change and humanitarian assistance around the world.

Weight: 520g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367646882