Non-Maleficience: Professional Practice in Poland

Abstract

This paper discusses professional practice with regards to the role of translators and interpreters in contemporary Poland. One of the significant changes currently taking place in Poland and many other countries is increasing integration with Europe and the world as a whole. Translators and interpreters have a very important role in this integration process. They are at the forefront of talks and discussion about integration and increasing interaction between Poland and the rest of the world, including in technology development and transfer. Ethical behaviour by both translators and the organisations that employ them, whether on a short or long term basis, is very important. Unfortunately, unethical behaviour by translation agencies, including non- and under payment, is not uncommon and has, for instance, led to translators blacklisting some of them. There are also codes of ethics for translators, for instance from the American Translators Association. However, further work is required in the area. In particular, there is a need for case studies to examine issues arising in practice and how best and most ethically they can be dealt with, as well as to learn from past mistakes and develop good practice for the future.