A UN day celebrating translators' role in bridging languages and cultures and fostering understanding between peoples.
Date30 September
TopicCulture & Heritage
Established2017
Ways to observe this day
Read a translated literary work from another culture
Appreciate the work translators do in everyday life
Learn a few words or phrases in a new language
Join an event or discussion on translation and cross-cultural communication
On May 24, 2017, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution A/RES/71/288, designating September 30 as International Translation Day, recognizing the role of professional translation in connecting nations and promoting peace, understanding, and development. The International Federation of Translators, founded in 1953, had championed the observance since 1991.
September 30 was chosen because it marks the feast day of St. Jerome, the patron saint of translators, credited with translating the Bible into Latin. The day recognizes the work of translators and interpreters in facilitating dialogue, bridging cultures, and making knowledge and literature accessible to wider audiences worldwide.
Universities, translation organizations, and international bodies mark the day with seminars and conferences discussing challenges in the profession, honoring notable translators, and highlighting translation's role in education, diplomacy, cultural exchange, and human rights.