Bridging Communication Gaps in Crisis: A Case Study of Remote Interpreting in the Middle East During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

This study investigates the perceptions of remote interpreters regarding the impact of the transfer of interpreting mode from on-site mode to online mode. The study utilized an online survey and disseminated it online via online platforms, targeting interpreters in Middle Eastern countries. The survey collected information about the primary mode of remote interpreting practice, the frequency of interpreting services during COVID-19, the leading interpreting platforms, and major remote interpreting clients. It also gathered information about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on interpreting services, the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic on interpreting services, and recommendations for the future of remote interpreting during global crises and emergencies. The study found that most interpreting services are via Zoom, Telephone, and Kudo. Moreover, the major clients for remote interpreting were healthcare providers and international organizations. On the other hand, the study revealed that the main impacts of COVID-19 on interpreting were the transition to remote interpreting services, cancellations and postpones of interpreting events, economic impact (a decline in income), security, data privacy, and confidentiality. Moreover, the main challenges were technological limitations, lack of non-verbal communication, and physical and mental health. The study recommends that it is imperative to develop resilient systems that efficiently integrate remote interpreting into crisis response strategies.