Code of ethics

Question 1

Confidentiality

Answer 1

The community interpreter does not disclose private or proprietary information learned during the execution of his or her professional duties, except where disclosure is required by institutional regulations or by law.

Question 2

Accuracy

Answer 2

The community interpreter strives to interpret every message without omissions, additions, distortions, or any other changes to the original message.

Question 3

Impartiality

Answer 3

The community interpreter refrains from allowing personal beliefs to manifest in his or her professional conduct, especially when rendering the content and tone of the message.

Question 4

Transparency

Answer 4

The community interpreter interprets everything that is said to ensure that all messages expressed during the encounter are communicated to all parties.

Question 5

Direct communication

Answer 5

The community interpreter initiates and actively supports practices that enable service users and providers to engage in direct communication.

Question 6

Professional boundaries

Answer 6

The community interpreter should maintain professional boundaries, both during and outside of the interpreted encounter.

Question 7

Intercultural communication

Answer 7

The community interpreter intervenes to promote meaningful communication across cultural differences only when necessary for clear communication and without articulating the interpreter’s beliefs or speculations about any of the parties’ cultures.

Question 8

Professional conduct

Answer 8

The community interpreter’s conduct should reflect the highest standards of the profession by showing adherence to professional ethics and best practices.