China.org.cn: So as you just mentioned, actually, the UN has begun to use some translation software. So what do you think the effect of the computer technology has on the translation industry?
Yohannes Mengesha: Well I think within the UN certainly, we've been very open to new technology. As I said at the conference this morning, you cannot automate all the official work done by translators, but certainly we take advantage of technological advances. And there are many IT tools that are being developed. One example that I can give that is very helpful is finding repetitive text, so you don't have to repeat what has been done before. Machine translators could work for some easy type of translation, but I think we find the kind of sensitivity around the language that is used by member states requires experienced and seasoned translators to review them and make sure they are consistent. Member states are very, very careful about the quality of the work that comes out. Quality and also accessibility are important. And here we also have another challenge for us as a department because obviously quality comes at a cost. And member states are very conscious about the cost issue. So we have to achieve a balance between keeping cost under control while at the same time addressing the quality concerns. So managing that balance is one of the challenges of our department.
China.org.cn: So computer technology can be viewed as a promotion to the translator?
Yohannes Mengesha: Yes, not a replacement.
China.org.cn: In this morning's speech, you mentioned that translator and interpreter are the "silent partners" in the diplomatic process. Do you have some plan to improve their positions and to better protect their rights?
Yohannes Mengesha: Well, let me explain. I think by "silent partners" -- what is meant is that they are behind the scenes; they have to facilitate discussions and negotiations either as interpreters or as translators. So that is what is meant by "silent partners." It's not that they cannot speak out for their rights or for their conditions of service; those are two separate things. But I think it's important that if you're working in that kind of context, you cannot put your own words in.
China.org.cn: Your opinions?
Yohannes Mengesha: Yes. Your opinions cannot get mixed up with the work that you do. So being in a kind of subordinate position -- in a supporting role -- is in fact the best way to get the job done. To find people who have that humility -- while at the same time have the professional caliber to do the job -- is the challenge in finding the right people. I think, as you know, we have competitive exams for translators or interpreters. All language staff have to pass a competitive exam to come to the UN. And we'll be having another campaign in China for interpreters and translators in November of 2008. And those people who pass the exam then have to go through a competitive-based interview process so that they are seen to be fit to work within the environment of the UN. So the intake is quite limited because of the strict criteria of the selection of new recruits.
China.org.cn: About that, if the translator found something is wrong, or he has a different opinion, how can he express himself? Or is there any system so he can report this mistake or different opinions?
Yohannes Mengesha: Well what usually happens -- is the best thing obviously --is to reach the authors of the particular text or word or paragraph and try to clarify with them: 'What is your intent?' And if that is done, you can reach some kind of understanding. But because we have to meet very strict time deadlines, sometimes that's not possible. So that puts the translator as a professional in a dilemma; he may -- or she may -- think a particular word should be done or translated in this way. And the author maybe used a different construction. So of course, in the end, member states have the last word. They are the authors. But where there is an opportunity -- if it doesn't work that time -- then the next time around, a similar issue comes out. And an attempt will be made to discuss this with the authors. And usually, if there is a discussion, they will see the point can be made.
