Which principle should interpreters adhere to regarding dual or conflicting roles?

Interpreters must adhere to the principle of avoiding dual or conflicting roles because these roles can lead to situations where the interpreter's objectivity and impartiality are compromised. When an interpreter takes on multiple roles, such as being both the interpreter and a friend or relative of one of the parties involved, it can create conflicts of interest and potentially harm the quality of interpretation. The primary responsibility of an interpreter is to facilitate communication effectively and accurately, and dual roles can interfere with that by introducing bias or personal feelings into the interpretation process.

The emphasis on maintaining professional boundaries ensures that all parties involved are treated fairly and that the integrity of the interpreting process is upheld. By avoiding dual roles, interpreters can preserve their professional ethics and provide the highest quality of service to their consumers, ensuring that communication remains clear and unbiased.

While consulting with consumers about dual roles might seem beneficial, it doesn't negate the fundamental obligation to avoid such roles in the first place. Encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration can be helpful, but it does not address the critical issue of maintaining a clear professional role as an interpreter. Embracing dual roles undermines the core principles of impartiality, confidentiality, and professionalism that are essential for interpreters to achieve their purpose effectively.