A Model of Risk Factors in Remote Interpreting

The worldwide spread of the COVID-19 since 2020 has led to a surge in demand for remote conference interpreting. This emerging trend poses a number of risks and challenges for interpreters, conference organisers, interpretation services, and equipment providers. Drawing upon the practical knowledge of conference interpreters who have engaged in remote simultaneous interpretation, the present article scrutinises seven types of potential risks and obstacles that remote interpreting poses to interpreters. From the interpreters’ standpoint, the article also puts forth corresponding remedies and recommendations to facilitate their seamless transition to this novel working modality. The model can inspire interpreting practice and education of interpreter trainees in the post-pandemic world.