Crisis translation: considering language needs in multilingual disaster settings

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to highlight the role that language translation can play in disaster prevention and management and to make the case for increased attention to language translation in crisis communication. Design/methodology/approach The paper draws on literature relating to disaster management to suggest that translation is a perennial issue in crisis communication. Findings Although communication with multicultural and multilinguistic communities is seen as being in urgent need of attention, the authors find that the role of translation in enabling this is underestimated, if not unrecognized. Originality/value This paper raises awareness of the need for urgent attention to be given by scholars and practitioners to the role of translation in crisis communication.

Collaborative translation of emergency messages (Co-TEM): An Australian case study

“…Language and cultural differences can pose significant barriers to communication between emergency authorities and multicultural communities [ 1 , 4 ]. Multicultural communities often comprise indigenous populations, recent migrants, and other visitors who cannot clearly understand emergency warnings in the official language [ 5 ]. In fact, the official language is often the second or third language for many crisis-affected communities [ 5 ].…”

“…Multicultural communities often comprise indigenous populations, recent migrants, and other visitors who cannot clearly understand emergency warnings in the official language [ 5 ]. In fact, the official language is often the second or third language for many crisis-affected communities [ 5 ]. According to O'Brien [ 6 ], crisis communication can fail very quickly and result in negative consequences, when the messaging is in the second or third language for those affected.…”

“…Similarly, after the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake hit Japan in January 1995, many migrants and visitors suffered disproportionately in accessing emergency support because they could not understand the emergency information in Japanese language [ 7 ]. To avoid a similar communication barrier in the 2017 Grenfell Tower fire in West London, there was need to translate emergency information into 18 languages [ 5 ].…”

“…It is truly encouraging to see several studies [ [5] , [6] , [7] ] emphasise the need to provide emergency information in multiple languages. According to Bean et al [ 8 ], emergency managers can no longer afford to rely on a one-message-fits-all strategy, when there are great opportunities to explore technology and human efforts in making emergency messages available in multiple languages.…”

“…The FCC added that all Americans, including those whose primary language is not English, deserve the same protections from disaster risks [ 9 , 10 ]. Apparently, it is also a fundamental human right to be provided access to crisis information in the language, formats, and channels that are most appropriate for the individual at risk [ 5 ].…”