Now that Brexit has arrived, questions are being raised again surrounding the need and variation of translation services. One in particular being discussed is the potential rise for the need of French translations if the European Union decide to make the French language the dominant language within the parliament and business communities.
Business French Translations
Should French be adopted as the main administrative and business language, then French Translators will need to ensure they are up-to-date with all processes, procedures and technicalities in order for them to provide accurate and contextually correct French translations. For example, the European Parliament may have introduced new ways of working or policy requirements since the translator last checked and therefore a lack of understanding of these changes could prove problematic.
Possible Increase in Translation Services
For Translation Companies, there could be a noticeable increase in their translation work, due to the flood of thousands of documents, in a range of languages, including French, for areas such as new laws, updated or changed treaties and new agreements or regulations. If this is then coupled with the fact that the UK will be setting its own new rules and regulations for dealing and trading with new foreign partners, then it stands to reason that the professional translation services in London will be vital for success. With Brexit being such a controversial topic, it is necessary for every phase of the communication between sides to be taken sincerely and interpreted correctly.
Could Translation Services Decrease?
There could potentially be some changes around the rules which would have an impact on the recruitment process of native speakers working in the UK. The matter of the free movement of people and therefore of labour, continues to be a major question with regards to the final Brexit agreement.
The conditions applied to obtaining work permits and visas could have an impact which, dependant on the application for working in the UK, could potentially result in businesses facing losing some of their valuable workforce. In particular, translators arriving from countries inside the EU, the prospect of work in the UK may become much less appealing and therefore highlight the possible decrease in the market for English translators.
How likely is this?
As with many questions and discussions around the Europe, the answer to this question depends very much on who you ask. Native French speakers will say they believe that, as historically French was the dominant language before English, then reverting to this position is a natural step after Brexit. However, others will point to the fact that English is either the first or second language in over 70 countries across the world and is widely considered the language of business. Whichever camp you may sit in, French to English translations or vice versa will remain a necessity for dealing with European Agencies.
We are naturally monitoring closely the ever changing events around Brexit and how they could impact us as a professional translation service. We always ensure that our clients receive the highest quality translation, be it French to English Translation or English to French and any other languages required. If you would like to discuss your latest translation project, then please give our team a call and they will be more than happy to help.