Liaison interpreting

Starting from the definition of the meaning of liaison, this section first explores the different interpersonal and social implications of liaison interpreting described as an oral form of linguistic and cultural mediation performed on the basis of the interpreter’s memory, at times aided by a few notes, and not on the basis of a specific technical equipment. Next, the historical development of the profession and of the liaison interpreter status is described. Furthermore, liaison interpreting is compared with conference interpreting, highlighting the main differences in terms of communicative role, register, language directionality, proxemics, mode of delivery, consequences of inaccurate renditions, level of accuracy required, participants to the communicative event. Finally, the pragmatic and cultural-linguistic dimensions of the professional role of a liaison interpreter are tackled, with special reference to ethics, code of conducts, neutrality and advocacy. Finally, indications on training is provided.