In one of our articles we looked at the definition of “translation of official documents” and, in particular, we gave a definition from the legislation of the Russian Federation. But what if we try to take a broader look at this question by looking at the translation of documents and find out what a document and english to telugu translate is as such?
Unfortunately, law is inert, and Russian law even more so, since it describes relationships that already exist in society in an attempt to legalize them. So, according to Russian law, a document is a material object designed to convey information.
But today in our country electronic document management is being introduced everywhere, and in some areas it has already superseded the usual paper document. But even despite the presence of such a procedure as certification of an electronic document by an electronic digital signature (EDS), it is still not recognized as a document. At the same time the further the technologies develop, the more often we will face the need to transfer documents electronically, and even to sign these documents electronically.
Perhaps in about ten years our translations can be certified remotely, using EDS, and just as remotely transmitted, for example, to the Federal Migration Service. But this is all fantasy because today nobody has even legalized the fact of electronic documents availability, to say nothing of the possibility of their transfer.
But electronic documents that can be printed and read are one thing, but what about audio recordings? Let’s say a third party made an audio recording of a high-ranking politician’s report during a public event and wants a certified translation of that report. There may be no such report in hard copy, or it may appear later. Moreover, transcripts are waived at many official events in order to reduce personnel costs, and in such a situation, the audio recording is removed from the context of legal relations altogether.
Under Russian law, we cannot certify the translation of such a document, because it is not a document. In this article, we are not calling for legislative changes or even trying to scientifically justify the need for such changes and certifications, but as people who work with the most fluid and unpredictable substance – language – we suggest a broader view of the terminology we use.
Translation and Interpretation of Documents
In a general sense, document translation can include almost any action involving the use of two or more languages. In today’s globalized world, everyone uses local translation actions everywhere. No matter what it is – an excerpt from a song heard on the radio, an advertising sign, garlanded with foreign words, the name of your favorite coffee – we are constantly translating something. It is, however, an everyday, local level of translation, and most of us do it without thinking, rarely resorting to the help of friends or even dictionaries. Nevertheless, all of us sooner or later are faced with the need to turn to a professional when doing translations.
Are you developing your business? Looking for distribution channels abroad? Signing contracts with foreign business partners? – You will need translation of business correspondence or translation support at negotiations. Going on vacation? – Have your documents translated for your visa. Are you buying a property abroad? – There is a need for translation of contracts. Going to study in a prestigious foreign university? – You have to translate your diploma.