Translating at the United Nations - Navaigating between Faithful Precision and Fluent Expression

Cairo, 10 October, 2023

Fathi M. A. Ahmed recently facilitated a thought-provoking workshop at The American University in Cairo (AUC) titled "Translating at the United Nations System – Navigating Between Faithful Precision and Fluent Expression." Held in Cairo’s vibrant academic hub, the event provided a deep dive into one of the most critical challenges faced by translators: the delicate balance between maintaining faithful precision and delivering fluent expression in translation.

The workshop targeted the AUC’s esteemed translation faculty, sparking discussions on how translators, particularly within the United Nations system, must constantly navigate between staying true to the original text and ensuring that the translated content reads naturally and fluidly in the target language. This tension between precision and fluency is a common challenge for professionals, and Ahmed’s insights shed light on how to master this balancing act in high-stakes settings like international diplomacy and legal contexts.

Fathi M. A. Ahmed leading a workshop at AUC on UN translation techniques, focusing on precision and fluency. Translation workshop, UN translation, AUC Cairo, Fathi M. A. Ahmed, translation techniques, academic workshop, translation precision, fluent expression.

One of the key highlights was the discussion on translating for forensic purposes, a field where accuracy is paramount but where the ability to convey meaning clearly and without ambiguity is equally crucial. For Ahmed, the workshop was a rewarding experience, offering him the chance to share his expertise on handling these complex translation scenarios, where even the smallest nuance can carry significant weight.

Ahmed expressed his gratitude to all who participated, whether in person or virtually, with special thanks to the event's organizers—Maged Habashy, Deena M. Mansour, Amira Kabbany, and Khaled Ragheb. Their efforts in orchestrating the workshop ensured a productive space for tackling one of the most nuanced aspects of translation: the intricate dance between faithful precision and fluent expression.

Fathi M. A. Ahmed's presentation at AUC workshop on UN translation techniques, focusing on precision and fluency. Translation workshop, UN translation, AUC Cairo, Fathi M. A. Ahmed, translation techniques, academic workshop, translation precision, fluent expression.

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