What ethical responsibility do interpreters have in the event of a language barrier?

Interpreters hold a critical ethical responsibility to ensure that effective communication is achieved, especially when faced with a language barrier. When they identify that communication is not adequately taking place, seeking appropriate assistance becomes paramount. This might involve reaching out to another qualified interpreter or utilizing resources that can help bridge the language gap.

By actively seeking additional support, interpreters demonstrate a commitment to the parties involved, ensuring that their message is conveyed accurately and effectively. This action aligns with the principles of facilitating understanding and preventing miscommunication, which are essential components of the interpreting profession. In situations where interpreters attempt to handle the communication challenges independently, such as rephrasing or guessing, it could lead to inaccuracies and misunderstandings, which falls short of their professional obligation to provide clear and reliable interpretation services.