Case Study 4: Lingua Receptiva at the Directorate-General for Translation (DGT) of the European Commission

Abstract

The case concerns advice on the possible role of Intercomprehension in the translation process at the Directorate-General of Translation at the European Commission. Intercomprehension is a form of multilingual communication in which people use different languages, yet understand each other on the basis of their receptive competencies. Researchers of Utrecht University interviewed professionals at DGT about their attitude and exposure to Intercomprehension, and the application of Intercomprehension in their internal communication and work as translaters. When the results of the research were presented, these included the advice to offer awareness training for DGT employees. After three years, DGT reacted positively and a training was organized successfully. The lesson that can be learned from this case is that with large institutions like the European Commission cooperation and consultancy require patience and perseverance. Furthermore, a detailed analysis of the structure and development of communication policy within the institution is of great importance.