The professionalization of sign language interpreting in Turkey: Interpreter training and public interpreting services

Abstract

This thesis explores the development and current status of sign language interpreting in Turkey since 2005, which was the year that marked the official recognition of Turkish Sign Language (TİD) and the Deaf community’s right to interpreting. The study focuses mainly on the state-led (through the Ministry of Family and Social Affairs) community interpreting services available for the Deaf and the interpreter training programs designed by the Ministry of National Education (MEB). Within this scope, the study aims to find out the degree of cooperation among the stakeholders authorized by the Turkish government to plan and provide language services for the Deaf and how effective the current interpreting services are. Based on the literature on the professionalization of community interpreting services, the current study determines at which state sign language interpreting in Turkey stands on its journey towards professionalization. Within this frame, the study mainly relies on the information received from the relevant stakeholders regarding their work, views, expectations and cooperation with other actors involved in the planning and/or provision of the interpreting services for the Deaf. In addition to drawing a picture of the current state of sign language interpreting in Turkey, the study ends with a number of recommendations to further develop and professionalize the field based on the international best practices. The thesis also hopes to increase the visibility of sign language interpreting in Turkey as a developing profession that requires further attention and cooperation from the Turkish government, professional organizations and academia.