Translating International Treaties

[Tania Zucker]

Language translation services have made treaties between nations a possibility. Without the work of translators and interpreters who break language barriers country leaders would be unable to communicate, reach an agreement, and sign a treaty. Professional translators who specialize in international relations and contracts typically have a ton of experience in document translation services and can accommodate the needs of politicians who hope to sign a treaty or free trade pact with another nation. Their expertise and skills in the translation industry will help such translators carry out error-free document translations. California Center for Translation & Interpretation www.cacfti.com relies on such translators to translate the documents of its valued clients. Some treaties include arrangements for the alignment of legal standards in trade. The translator has to accurately translate all the sections of the treaty including such provisions or the translation will cause misunderstandings between the two countries, impeding bilateral contacts. Miscommunications can sour relationships or cause difficulties in negotiations when foreign ministers meet with each other. Sometimes countries are asked to make reforms before they can enter into an agreement with other nations. If that is the case, the talks should take place before the documents are translated. If the treaty is drafted and translated before the other side confirms that reforms have been made the first party will have to pay for document translation service again to make the appropriate modifications to the treaty. Hence, it is better for the parties to send a copy of the document to the translator after both sides have reached an agreement. There are various types of agreements that countries discuss with each other. For example, under a Treaty of Affection countries agree not to attack each other. Translators who are asked to translate treaties should only take on the task if they are confident that they can handle the language. International Investment Agreements promote foreign investments by protecting the rights of investors from other counties. They usually include a clause about the process of dispute resolutions. Translators who offer document translation services for such treaties must be familiar with arbitration and mediation processes in both countries. This knowledge helps them achieve precision in their translations. IIA’s are very important to energy investors as many companies have recovered large amounts of investments that were treated unfairly. Diplomats who sign treaties usually do so in an attempt to boost ties between their nation and a foreign state. Treaties must be translated into the native language of the parties that will be signing them. Without document translation services diplomats cannot ratify treaties because they cannot clearly understand the terms.