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Article published In:
FORUM
Vol. 18:2 (2020) ► pp.150–178

Impartiality and accuracy as a case in point while interpreting in a refugee context

| Universitat Jaume I
This paper examines the fundamentals of professionalism focusing on the code of ethics as a pivotal parameter. Attention is paid to the difficulties of implementing two of the core principles of codes of ethics for interpreting in a refugee context: impartiality and accuracy. The aim of this article is to explore interpreters’ appreciation of these principles and self-identification with them versus actual observance in refugee settings. Ninety-six US-based interpreters completed a survey on self-perceptions regarding adherence to the principles and real actions performed. Findings show that a high number of interpreters do not comply with the principles despite having previously declared their full endorsement and self-identification with them. Impartiality presented more deviations than accuracy. Internal and external demands have proven to be stronger than adherence to the code. Calls to rethink and refine codes of ethics for interpreting in a refugee context are also presented.
Keywords: interpreting, refugees, code of ethics, impartiality, accuracy
Article outline
  • 1.Introduction
  • 2.Fundamentals of professionalism
  • 3.Codes of ethics for interpreters
    • 3.1Codes of Conduct for interpreting in a refugee context
  • 4.Interpreting for refugees in practice
  • 5.Method
    • 5.1Research design and procedure
    • 5.2Participants
    • 5.3Results
      • 5.3.1Appreciation of the selected principles of the Code of Ethics
      • 5.3.2Attitudes and action related to the principles
  • 6.Discussion
  • 7.Conclusion
  • Notes
  • References
Published online: 11 November 2020
DOI logo
https://doi.org/10.1075/forum.19024.jim
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