International Organizations for Interpreters

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/international-organizations

Introduction

**Course Review: International Organizations for Interpreters on Coursera** If you are an aspiring conference interpreter or simply curious about the intricate connections between international organizations and the field of interpreting, the Coursera course titled **International Organizations for Interpreters** is a must-explore opportunity. Offered by the revered Faculty of Translation and Interpreting at the University of Geneva—the oldest interpreting school in the world—this course provides a unique lens through which to view the inner workings of global diplomacy and negotiations. ### Course Overview This course is crafted specifically for students of conference interpreting, or those keen to embark on studying the discipline. The curriculum is meticulously designed to blend theoretical knowledge with practical insight, allowing participants to observe international organizations from a unique perspective: the interpreting booth. Over the span of the course, you will delve into the history, structures, and functionalities of international organizations, particularly as they pertain to those working in simultaneous interpretation. ### Detailed Syllabus Breakdown **Module 1: International Geneva** The journey begins with a fascinating exploration of Geneva's role as a hub of multilateralism. By understanding how Geneva became the center for international organizations, students acquire foundational knowledge necessary for interpreting in this field. You will learn to identify various types of international organizations, setting the stage for advanced studies. **Module 2: History, Evolution and Trends** Transitioning to historical context, this module covers the establishment of early international organizations, with a focused spotlight on significant entities like the League of Nations and the International Labour Organization (ILO). This historical perspective enriches your ability to contextualize current practices in conference interpreting. **Module 3: The Structure of International Organizations** Understanding the legal frameworks that govern international organizations is crucial for any interpreter. In this module, you will explore the legal status of these organizations, dissect their structural configurations, and gain insights into entities within the UN system. **Module 4: The Competencies and Functioning of International Organizations** Here, you'll learn about the mandates of international organizations and how they expand over time, shaping the operational landscape. A key takeaway will be understanding the nuances of decision-making processes within international settings—an invaluable skill for any interpreter. **Module 5: Multilingualism in International Organizations** One of the defining features of international organizations is their multilingual nature, which is essential for conference interpreters to grasp. This module reviews the evolution of the UN's multilingual system, addresses the dominance of English, and weighs the costs associated with multilingualism in a global context. **Conclusion: Assessing International Organizations** The course wraps up with a critical evaluation of the benefits and shortcomings of international organizations. You will gain a comprehensive understanding of the challenges they face, financial implications, and their overall importance in global governance. ### Why You Should Consider This Course This course is not merely a theoretical exploration; it is a tightly woven fabric of history, practical skills, and critical thinking that informs the unique challenges faced by conference interpreters. The insight provided by instructors from the University of Geneva, combined with the course's structured approach, enhances the learning experience. Moreover, for anyone pursuing a career in conference interpreting, this course serves as an invaluable resource for gaining a deep understanding of the complexities and nuances of international organizations, laying a solid foundation for future endeavors in the field. ### Conclusion In summary, **International Organizations for Interpreters** on Coursera is highly recommended for students of conference interpreting and those interested in the dynamics of global governance. The combination of rich historical context, structural acumen, and practical competencies positions this course as a cornerstone for future interpreters seeking to excel in multilingual international environments. Whether you are looking to enhance your skills or simply broaden your understanding of international organizations, this course promises to be both enlightening and rewarding.

Syllabus

International Geneva

Welcome to Module 1 of our course. In this Module you will find out how Geneva became a centre of multilateralism, learn about the main international organizations in Geneva, and learn how to identify different kinds of international organization.

Welcome to Module 2 of our course. In this Module you will learn about the founding of the first international organizations and the growth of the multilateral system. We will focus in particular on the League of Nations, the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the UN system as a whole.

Welcome to Module 3 of our course. In this Module you will learn about the legal status of international organizations and the functions of their basic texts. We will then examine the structure of organizations, focussing on identifying the various kinds of body found within them. Finally, you will learn about the different kinds of entity that make up the UN system, in particular the UN specialized agencies.

Welcome to Module 4 of our course. In this Module you will learn about the mandates and roles of international organizations. We will look at the tendency of organizations' mandates to gradually expand, and the problems that can ensue. You will also learn how international organizations make decisions.

Welcome to Module 5 of our course. The Module focusses on topics that are of particular interest to future conference interpreters: languages and multilingualism. You will first learn how the current multilingual system at the UN came to be, which, of course, would not have been possible without simultaneous interpreting. You will learn about the founding of our profession, and the important distinction between official and working languages. We will then examine two important issues linked to multilingualism: the increasing dominance of English and the cost of multilingualism within international organizations.

Welcome to the final Module of our course. This Module will help you assess the benefits and shortcomings of international organizations. We will look at the numerous flaws of international organizations, and the cost of the multilateral system — including typical IO budgets — but we will also assess the importance of international organizations and the multilateral system as a whole.