Interpreters quit Justice Ministry over poor conditions, fairness concerns arise
Interpreters for the Dutch Ministry of Justice are scaling back or quitting due to deteriorating working conditions, raising concerns about the availability of qualified interpreters in courtrooms, the Association of Certified Interpreters and Translators (ORRT) reported Saturday.
The association, representing professional interpreters and translators, conducted a survey among its members, with 286 respondents. Of those, 38 percent who previously worked with the Public Prosecution Service (OM) said they had recently stopped, while 39 percent reported a significant reduction in their work. Only 3 percent plan to continue under current conditions.
Impact on justice system
The ORRT warned that ongoing legal cases "might not proceed because no qualified interpreter is available," according to the association's statement.
They further noted that interpreters who continue to work are often uncertified or underqualified, which could harm the quality of legal proceedings. The association emphasized that this shift could compromise the integrity of the justice system.
The dissatisfaction stems from changes implemented earlier this year. Interpreter assignments for the justice sector, including the OM, are now managed through commercial intermediary agencies. These intermediaries have been criticized for poor communication, lack of flexibility, and unfavorable conditions.
The survey revealed that interpreters were frustrated by issues such as insufficient pay, inadequate case information, and limited ability to negotiate terms. “It is no longer financially viable, there is no respect for expertise, and the intermediary agencies provide little to no case clarity,” the ORRT said.
The ORRT is urging government intervention to address the situation. They argue that the current system is unsustainable and damaging for both interpreters and the justice process. Without action, the ORRT predicts a continued exodus of interpreters, leaving the justice system further strained.
“The conditions are worse than before outsourcing. There’s a lack of communication about assignments, unclear case details, and poor contact with contracting parties,” the association stated.
