What is the primary purpose of the RID Code of Professional Conduct (CPC)?

The primary purpose of the RID Code of Professional Conduct (CPC) is to establish ethical guidelines and standards of practice for interpreters. This is essential because interpreters play a vital role in facilitating communication across languages and cultures, and as such, they must adhere to a set of professional, ethical principles to ensure the integrity and effectiveness of their work. The CPC outlines important aspects such as confidentiality, professional relationships, and impartiality, all of which are crucial for maintaining the trust of both clients and the communities served.

The establishment of these ethical guidelines also helps to promote professionalism within the interpreting field, guiding interpreters in their decision-making processes and interactions with clients. This focus on ethics is foundational for fostering public confidence in interpreters and the interpreting profession as a whole.

In contrast, while interpreting technology and market dynamics are important aspects of the profession, they are not the primary aim of the CPC. The Code does not function as a marketing tool or a pricing regulator; instead, it centers on ethical practices that enhance the quality and accountability of interpretation services.