LE MARCHÉ DE L'INTERPRÉTATION COMMUNAUTAIRE FACE AUX ENJEUX SOCIO-POLITIQUES DU MALI

This study investigates the community interpreting market in Mali, focusing on the interplay between the market, socio-political dynamics, and interpreters' experiences. The primary research problem is the poorly structured and underpaid nature of this sector, despite its potential within Mali's complex socio-economic and linguistic landscape. The research seeks to identify the socio-political challenges facing the interpreting market in Mali, the coping strategies interpreters use to navigate these challenges and leverage available opportunities, and the effectiveness of these strategies. The study hypothesises that socio-political issues in interpreting are rooted in national integration, linguistic diversity, security concerns, language recognition, professional training, employment conditions, corruption, and access to justice. It also suggests that interpreters are leveraging continuing education to optimise economic opportunities and effectively manoeuvre through a challenging landscape. Their initiatives—such as specialized training, participation in professional associations, and awareness-raising campaigns—enhance their understanding and influence on socio-political issues. The research adopts a mixed-methods approach, using questionnaires administered to various stakeholders in the interpreting market and semi-structured interviews with interpreters of relevant institutions. Findings indicate that the Malian community interpreting market is beset by challenges including inadequate professional training, limited recognition of interpreters’ roles, and security threats. Interpreters frequently operate independently, relying on personal networks and informal channels, thereby contributing to a fragmented market characterized by inconsistent rates. The study underscores the impact of socio-political events, like coups d'état and security crises, on the demand for interpreters and the languages used. It highlights interpreters' strategies to navigate these challenges, including continuous professional development through practice, reading, and training. This research contributes to the field by providing empirical data on community interpreting in Mali. It examines the ramifications of socio-political dynamics, investigates interpreters' adaptive strategies, underscores the importance of training and professionalization, offers perspectives on interpreter-client relationships, and addresses ethical considerations within conflict-affected contexts.