Founded in Paris in 1953 by Pierre-François Caillé, FIT is an international federation of translators' associations which are located in nearly 50 countries throughout the world. Through its member associations, FIT represents the moral and material interests of over 60,000 translators on all five continents.

FIT is a strictly non-political organization of professional translators. As a non-governmental organization, FIT enjoys Category A status with UNESCO and maintains close contacts with many other international organizations.

Objectives

The principal objectives of FIT are: (a) to bring together translators' associations already in existence; (b) to sponsor and facilitate the formation of such associations in countries where they do not already exist; (c) to provide member associations with any information and advice that would be useful to them; (d) to develop harmony and understanding among all member associations so as to promote the interests of translators; (e) to uphold the moral and material interests of translators throughout the world, advocate and advance the recognition of translation as a profession, enhance the status of the translator in society, and further public appreciation of translation as a science and a art.

Central Issues

Through its special committees, FIT endeavours to meet the needs of members throughout the world by addressing such issues as training, working conditions and recognition of the profession. The UNESCO Recommendation on the Protection and Improvement of the Legal and Social Status of Translations and Translators, adopted in Nairobi in 1976, is a milestone in the history of FIT.

FIT is proud of its achievements on behalf of the translating profession. At the same time, it is well aware of the work that remains to be done in order to meet the growing demand for international communication and cooperation. FIT, therefore, continues to play its vital role in overcoming language barriers and in promoting worldwide understanding.

(China.org.cn June 2, 2008)