A Study Guide on the Code of Ethics
for Certified Sign Language Interpreters(Translated in part)

Japanese Association of Sign Language Interpreters

A Study Guide on the Code of Ethics
for Certified Sign Language Interpreters(Translated in part)

Japanese Association of Sign Language Interpreters (JASLI)Contents

Code of Ethics: Our Goals to Achieve ................................... 4
Code of Ethics for Certified Sign Language Interpreters ........... 6
CHAPTER 1 ..................................................................... 10
1-1 Code of Ethics as “Code of Professional Ethics” ............ 10
1-2 Certified Sign Language Interpreters and Code of Ethics 12
1-3 Japanese Association of Sign Language Interpreters(JASLI) and Code of Ethics.............................................. 13
1-4 Who should follow Code of Ethics? ............................. 15
1-5 History and Code of Ethics ........................................ 16
CHAPTER 2 ..................................................................... 18
2-1 The Preamble to Code of Ethics ................................. 18
2-2 Articles of Code of Ethics .......................................... 242

Appendix: A chronological table of Sign Language Interpretation
system in Japan ............................................................... 52

3

「手話通訳士倫理綱領」に込められたもの
一般社団法人日本手話通訳士協会 会⾧ 小椋英子
一般社団法人日本手話通訳士協会は 1992 年に設立され、「手話通訳士」資格者で構成されています。2019 年現在で手話通訳士資格者は 3,745 人となりました。当協会にはその内約 60％が入会しています。
「手話通訳士倫理綱領」は聴覚障害者団体、手話関係団体、専門家等の議論を経て、4 年間をかけ 1997 年に策定されました。倫理綱領には、手話通訳者の理念が示されています。この倫理綱領が手話通訳の実践の中で生かされ、手話通訳士の資質が高まり、社会的地位の向上につながることを希望しています。
そして、それは、手話通訳を利用する、聴覚障害者の社会参加にも大きく貢献することになります。
今回、世界各国の皆様に「手話通訳士倫理綱領」を知っていただけることは、大変にうれしいことです。世界の手話通訳仲間と共に、情報や意見交換ができること
は、わたしたちに大きな刺激と、資質の向上をもたらすものです。
2019 年 7 月

Eiko Ogura
Eiko served as Board member of Japanese Association of Sign
Language Interpreters (JASLI) for 5 terms (1993.6-2003.6). She
was a member of Code of Ethics drafting committee and provided
a number of training to sign language interpreters all over Japan.
Eiko has been served as President of JASLI for 8 terms since she
was elected for the first time in June 2003.
Eiko has contributed to promote sign language in Japan byserving as Chief Judge at National Japanese Sign Language
Speech Contest for high school students since 2004.
4

Code of Ethics: Our Goals to Achieve
Eiko Ogura, President of JASLIJapanese Association of Sign Language Interpreters (JASLI) wasestablished in 1992, and consists of Certified Sign Language
Interpreters. Currently, 3,745 interpreters hold the certificate,
and about 60% of them are the members of our organization.
Code of Ethics for Certified Sign Language Interpreters wasestablished in 1997 after four years of discussion among thegroups of deaf people, people related to sign language, andexperts. It represents the ideals of JASLI. I sincerely hope that
our members fully understand its ideal and put it into practice.
This will surely improve the quality of sign language interpreters
and lead us to a highly recognized organization in society. I do
believe it will eventually contribute to the social participation ofdeaf people.
I am honored to present this Code of Ethics to our colleagues allover the world. I believe that exchanging knowledge and opinionswith interpreters from different countries will bring us greater
inspiration and uplift our qualities as professionals.
Eiko Ogura,July, 2019.
5手話通訳士倫理綱領

私たち手話通訳士は、聴覚障害者の社会参加を拒む障壁が解消され、聴覚障害者の社会への完全参加と平等が実現されることを願っている。このことは私たちを含めたすべての人々の自己実現につながるものである。

私たち手話通訳士は、以上の認識にたって、社会的に正当に評価されるべき専門職として、互いに共同し、広く社会の人々と協同する立場から、ここに倫理綱領を定める。

1．手話通訳士は、すべての人々の基本的人権を尊重し、これを擁護する。

2．手話通訳士は、専門的な技術と知識を駆使して、聴覚障害者が社会のあらゆる場面で主体的に参加できるように努める。

3．手話通訳士は、良好な状態で業務が行えることを求め、所属する機関や団体の責任者に本綱領の遵守と理解を促し、業務の改善・向上に努める。

6

Code of Ethics for Certified Sign Language Interpreters
Japanese Association of Sign Language Interpreters(JASLI)As Certified Sign Language Interpreters, we endeavor toeliminate the barriers standing in the way of the social
participation of deaf people, and to realize their full participationand equality in society. This will lead to the self-fulfillment of all
members of the society.
Based on this understanding, we interpreters, as professionals
who should be valued appropriately in society, will collaborate
with each other and with all people in society. We therefore
hereby establish this Code of Ethics.
1. Interpreters respect and advocate the fundamental humanrights of all persons.
2．Interpreters make sincere efforts to enable deaf people toparticipate independently in all social activities and situations by
fully applying their professional skills and knowledge.
３．Interpreters endeavor to improve and enhance their service
by encouraging persons in charge at their workplaces oragencies to understand and observe the Code of Ethics in orderto establish favorable working conditions.

7

4．手話通訳士は、職務上知りえた聴覚障害者及び関係者についての情報を、その意に反して第三者に提供しない。

5．手話通訳士は、その技術と知識の向上に努める。

6．手話通訳士は、自らの技術や知識が人権の侵害や反社会的な目的に利用される結果とならないよう、常に検証する。

7．手話通訳士は、手話通訳制度の充実・発展及び手話通訳士養成について、その研究・実践に積極的に参加する。

平成 9（1997）年 5 月 4 日制定

84. Interpreters shall not disclose information about any participant
learned in the course of duties, to any third party without
permission.
5．Interpreters continually strive to improve their professional
skills and knowledge.
６．Interpreters are responsible for the verification that their skills
and knowledge are not used for violations of human rights, nor
for any anti-social purpose.
７．Interpreters actively engage in research and practices which
enhance the development of the sign language interpretation
system and interpreter training.
Effective May 4th, 19979

CHAPTER 1
1-1 Code of Ethics as “Code of Professional Ethics”
In the interests of properly fulfilling our responsibilities and ourfunction within society at large, we who undertake sign language
interpretation (hereinafter "interpreters”*) have established Codeof Ethics for Certified Sign Language Interpreters (hereinafter
called “the Code”) as the guidelines upon which we act and appeal
this mission to the public.
Let us, then, consider the significance of the Code.
First, we consider “ethics.”
In the dictionary, “ethics” and “morals” have much the same
meaning. However, when we attempt to apply “morals” as theterm is understood in society at large to the reality of sign
language interpretation, certain inconsistencies emerge. The
article 2 of the Code states that “(interpreters make sincere efforts
to enable) deaf people to participate independently in all social
activities

andsituations.”

One

of

the

examplesoftheinconsistencies is that when deaf people independently participate
in society, hearing people are sometimes asked to refrain fromacting based on certain morals of their own world. Therefore,
some situations in sign language interpretation, ordinary moralsof society at large are not always considered to be appropriate.
This shows the peculiarity of sign language interpretation as aprofession, and it is the reason why the Code is considered as
10

“Code of Professional Ethics”
At this point, the duty of confidentiality needs to be included in
the ethics required for interpreters, in addition to a profoundunderstanding of human beings, and a high standard of sign
language interpretation skills based on practical experiences witha high linguistic level. The confidentiality in the Code is a promise
to society, through which interpreters gain social trust.
Their knowledge and skills of interpreters are given substance bya relationship of trust among deaf people, hearing people andinterpreters. The foundation of the trust is social recognition ofinterpreters. In order to build the recognition, it is necessary toprove that interpreters are the profession requiring abilities that
contribute to social development.
The Code was created for two purposes.
First, the Code helps establish the guidelines for the work of sign
language interpretation in Japan.
Second, the Code acts as a foundation of cooperation with diverse
persons in society, which is essential for building trustworthy
relationship

among

all

peoplerelatedtosign

languageinterpretation, to make incessant efforts in collaboration withservice users, and to enhance our skills as interpreters.
As a result, the Code has the effect to enhance social
11understanding of interpreters as well as to strengthen social trustin us.
It brings interpreters to put in a very important social function,and thus materializing the cohesive society where deaf andhearing people are treated as equal.
The Code serves as guidelines for the members of Japanese
Association of Sign Language Interpreter (JASLI) and represents
the value of sign language interpretation practice itself.
※ There are two categories of sign language interpreters inJapan. One is accredited by the Minister of Health, Laborand Welfare called as Certified Sign Language Interpreters
and the other is accredited by local governments called as
Sign Language Interpreters. In this booklet, “interpreters”
refers to Certified Sign Language Interpreters, unlessotherwise specified.

1-2 Certified Sign Language Interpreters and Code of Ethics
We, interpreters, are required at all times to conduct our work in
an appropriate manner and to choose a proper course of action
even in difficult situations to make clear cut ethical decisions.
The Code can serve as a guide in these situations.

12However, it is not omnipotent and will not resolve each and every
problem. The Code is our guidelines as profession as well as ourgoals, but it is not a solution for everything.
It may sound complicated but the Code is the guidelines and thegoals of our conduct and it also has a nature of the criteria andnorms of conduct for the professionals.
There will, however, be different opinions concerning the extent
to which these criteria should be achieved. For example, Article 1of the Code states that “interpreters respect and advocate thefundamental human rights of all persons.” The criterion here is torespect and support for human rights and it questions how one
perceives the meaning of human rights.
Naturally, how one interpreter perceives the rights might differ
from case by case. But the minimum criterion here is tounderstand the relationship of lives of deaf people and access tosign language interpretation service as a matter of the rights, andto act accordingly.

1-3 Japanese Association of Sign Language Interpreters(JASLI) and Code of Ethics
The Code is a set of goals towards which JASLI strives and at thesame time, it functions as the guidelines for its activities. On
occasion, JASLI receives comments that some activities of a13particular interpreter are problematic when viewed in terms of the
Code.
This may happen because the principles described in the Code arebeing understood as standards of conduct for interpreters. In
some cases, expulsion of a certain interpreter is requested using
the Code as absolute standards of conduct.
JASLI believes that when the Code should simply be taken as“guidelines” and when it should be taken as “standards” depends
on situations and we need to deal with them on case-by-case.
We expect interpreters to educate themselves so that they can
perform closer to the standard of the Code and to develop it to ahigher level.
The Code should not be forced upon interpreters but to be used
to support their efforts to act on it.
Taken as standards of conduct, the Code will on occasion require
such things as expulsion, but these forcible measures are not theoriginal purpose of its establishment.
We consider that the Code has been put in place to create anenvironment where all interpreters can make efforts to raise thelevel of operating standards as professionals.

141-4 Who should follow Code of Ethics?
Those who engage in the work of sign language interpretation in
our country are classified, systematically and generally, as Sign
Language Interpreters and Certified Sign Language Interpreters.
(see p.11) There is, however, no professional body whose
membership is open to both groups. JASLI is comprised ofCertified Sign Language Interpreters and serves as the only
professional body in Japan.
Since sign language interpretation is an activity which can be
described as a foundation of exercising rights, it is necessary that,when professional interpreting takes place, the Code be respectedby all sign language interpreters.
Sign language interpretation can also take place as a volunteer
activity of any member of the community, such as unpaid
interpreting service offered by colleagues.
Since "Communication" is an activity which serves as a foundationof exercising rights, sign language interpretation should always bepracticed based on the Code even when it is offered as pro bono
service.
Therefore, it is important that the Code occupies a place in theminds of all who engage in sign language interpretation.

15

1-5 History and Code of Ethics
Learning from the history of everyday life of deaf people anddeaf rights movement
All interpreters are expected to have knowledge about the historyof deaf people who fostered sign language while it had beenbanned to use.
Even today, many barriers for deaf people still remain. In order todeepen the understanding of the Code, it is important forinterpreters to learn from deaf people who have lived bravely inthe face of these barriers and their advocacy movement to
mitigate them.
Learning from the history and activities of sign language
interpretation
The 1st National Meeting of Japanese Sign Language Interpreters
was

held

in 1968 under the

theme

of

“Sign

languageinterpretation to protect the rights and lives of deaf people.” Thistheme

becamethefounding

principle

of

sign

languageinterpretation.
The history of sign language interpretation has been createdunder the keyword of “Rights and Lives of deaf people” and theCode is one of its fruits.

16

In this sense, it is important to learn this history to get the deep
understanding of the Code as it is a part of the deaf rights
movement history.

17

CHAPTER 2
In Chapter 2, along with an explanation of the preamble to theCode and the seven articles, we also consider the ethics ofinterpreters.
2-1 The Preamble to Code of Ethics
As Certified Sign Language Interpreters, we endeavor to eliminate
the barriers standing in the way of the social participation of deaf
people, and to realize their full participation and equality in society.
This will lead to the self-fulfillment of all members of the society.
Based on this understanding, we interpreters, as professionals
who should be valued appropriately in society, will collaborate witheach other and with all people in society. We therefore hereby
establish this Code of Ethics.
“History and ideals of the deaf rights and sign language
interpretation movement”
The preamble to the Code gives a brief description of how theethical view was formed and developed among sign language
interpreters

throughthedeafrightsandsignlanguageinterpretation movement.
Sign language interpretation in Japan has arisen owing to theunceasing efforts of deaf people who strived to obtain freedom insociety and the task was shouldered by the teachers of deaf
schools in the initial stage. Subsequently, a registration system for18

sign language volunteers was created as a result of sign language
volunteer training program and continuous efforts by those who
strived to promote the rights of deaf people. And those sign
language volunteers, together with deaf people, have maintainedand developed the system into the current state of sign language
interpretation service.
Interpreters, who provide sign language interpretation service,need to remember that the accreditation system for Certified Sign
Language Interpreters is a fruit of long time collaborative
movement of all relevant parties who are committed to realize the
dreams of deaf people. They lobbied for the need of sign language
interpretation service to national and regional governments aswell as to the society at large by distributing “I Love
Communication” pamphlets.*1
In 1968, at the 1st National Meeting of Japanese Sign Language
Interpreters, Shunsuke Ito presented his “Interpretation Theory.”In the presentation, he described the great social barriers of
prejudice and exclusion, which denied and tramped upon thedesire of a person with disability for a life and employment onequal terms with the rest of society. This prejudice and exclusion
had been in some instances created by the laws and the structures
based upon those laws. This reality had given rise to resignation,
anger, and escape from reality among deaf people. Ito described
an image of a sign language interpreter who understands thesituation of deaf people, who draws close and walks together withthem, “shouldering the burden of the important role of (enabling)19

these (deaf) people to live actively in solidarity with society atlarge.” This image is considered to be the origin of the ethics ofsign language interpreters.
*1: The pamphlet “I Love Communication,” proposing toestablish an accreditation system of Certified Sign
Language Interpreters was produced in 1985 by theJapanese Federation of the Deaf and the National
Research Association for Sign Language Interpretation.
1.2 million copies were distributed.
“Removing barriers to social participation and realization offull participation and equality”“ Full participation and equality” was the theme of the 1981
International Year of Disabled Persons, and the principle of“normalization” in bringing about and preserving the humanrights of persons with disabilities continues to the present day.
This also indicates the responsibility of government and society atlarge to eliminate social barriers.
The “Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities”
adopted by the United Nations in December 2006, came into force
in May 2008. It states that persons with disabilities should enjoy
human rights in equality with all as set out in the UN Declarationof Human Rights. The General Principles (Article 3) demonstrate
how the principle of normalization underlies the thinking behind
the Convention, including full and effective participation and20

inclusion*2 in society, equality of opportunity and accessibility*3.
*2: “Inclusion” is a way of thinking opposed to “exclusion,” asituation in which all places and opportunities in society
are open to persons with disabilities as equal members.
*3: “Accessibility” is a situation in which the facilities andamenities necessary to the everyday life of persons withdisabilities in such areas as the physical environment ortransportation systems (buildings, roads, public facilities,etc.), communications (information and communication
systems, etc.), and other services are easily available foruse by them. The Convention on the Rights of Persons
with Disabilities makes such measures the responsibilityof the signatory states.
The Preamble to the Code states that it is the desire of interpreters
to remove “the barriers standing in the way of the social
participation of deaf people” and to realize “full participation andequality” for them.
In order to achieve this, interpreters are expected to thinkcritically what comprises these barriers, how to remove them,whether full participation and equality of deaf people has beenachieved, if not what measures to be taken, and to act accordingly.
Takada and Ando struck a corresponding tone to this in their paper“The History and Ideals of Sign language Interpretation in Japan(1979),” in which they spoke of sign language interpreters as21

“social activists,” “social torchbearer,” and “assistants in attaining
freedom for deaf people.”“Self-fulfillment for all”
The Preamble also states that the desire for removal of barriers
afflicting

deaf

peopleandtheachievement

of

their

full

participation and equality is also “lead to the self-fulfillment of all
members of society,” including ourselves.
A similar sentiment is also to be found in the constitution of the
MimizukuKai, Japan s first sign-language group (note: "groups"
are often referred to as "circles”) established in Kyoto in 1963. In
its statute, it states that the purpose of the Circle is “to learn sign
language, to work together with deaf friends, to make efforts toend discrimination and prejudice, and also to elevate ourselves
through these activities.” This means that working together with
deaf people to end discrimination and prejudice against them willbring all people a better society, and that these efforts will render
us all empowered as human beings.
The 1980 “Plan of Action for the International Year of Disabled
Persons” says that a responsible approach by society inconsideration of persons with disabilities” does not only benefit
them but also society as a whole.”

The plan of action also statesthat “a society that excludes persons with disabilities is an
impoverished and fragile society.” From this point of view, thejoint movement of Circle members and sign language interpreters
22with deaf people to break down social barriers and achieve fullparticipation and equality is of benefit to not only deaf people, but
to society in general, including Circle members and all sign
language interpreters.
“A profession to be valued appropriately”
The Sign Language Interpreter Certificate Examination was
instituted in 1989, and JASLI was formed in 1991. Since then,several developments have occurred within the sign language
interpretation system.
However, the question arises whether sign language interpreters
have been appropriately recognized and valued as profession insociety.
The conditions for a recognized profession include 1) asystematized theory and skills; 2) training, education and inservice training; 3) a professional body; 4) Code of Ethics; 5)social recognition through an examination process; and 6)
assurance of financial compensation. As for the situation of sign
language interpreters, 1) through 5) above are in place.
Regarding to 3) a professional body, most interpreters, even after
they passed the certification examination, are not “employedinterpreters” but just work as “registered interpreters.” Also, notonly Certified Sign Language Interpreters but also many Sign
Language Interpreters provide sign language interpretation
23

service in Japan. Because of the fact there is room to discuss
whether JASLI can be called a professional body.
As for assurance of financial compensation in 6), it must be said
that this is nowhere near adequate. If sign language interpreters
continue to be denied appropriate recognition as professionals andadequate wages or other financial compensation, and if, as aresult, they are unable to ensure personal security in the pursuitof their profession, they will not be able to continue their work,
and which will make it difficult for deaf people to achieve equal
rights and full participation in society. Social recognition andimprovement of working conditions are important issues for thesign language interpretation service system in Japan.
Further, it cannot be said that sufficient effort is being made for2) training, education and in-service training.

2-2 Articles of Code of Ethics
１ ． Interpreters respect and advocate the fundamental
human rights of all persons.
Article 1 of the Code states the most important value forinterpreters during practices.
“All persons”

24

“All persons” refers to all citizens, meaning that interpreters serveboth hearing persons and deaf persons. In any situation,interpreters are always involved with both parties.
Deaf

personscannotcommunicate

inspokenlanguage,meanwhile hearing persons cannot communicate in sign language.
Sign language interpreters serve as intermediates who relay
linguistic message and information between the two parties. They
also mediate non-verbal communication such as emotions and/or
atmosphere of the scene. Furthermore, the role and work ofinterpreters

includeadjustingvariousissuescausedby

impediments to communication and information access andtaking necessary actions to solve problems.
“Fundamental human rights”“Fundamental Human Rights” refer to those fundamental rights
considered inalienable, which all people possess from birth as amatter of course.
Article 11 of the Constitution of Japan states “the people shall not
be prevented from enjoying any of the fundamental human rights.
These fundamental human rights guaranteed to the people by thisConstitution shall be conferred upon the people of this and future
generations as eternal and inviolate rights.”
Documents such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights
and the Japanese Constitution set out rights to freedom,
25

participation in society and vote in election as fundamental. The
Japanese constitution includes such provisions as the right to the
pursuit of happiness (Article 13), equality before the law (Article
14), the right to trial, and the right of redress from the State. In
recent years, people have begun to advocate for “new rights” suchas the right to live in good health or in peace.
The Constitution of Japan also states, in Article 12, “The freedoms
and rights guaranteed to the people by this Constitution shall bemaintained by the constant endeavor of the people, who shallrefrain from any abuse of these freedoms and rights and shallalways be responsible for utilizing them for the public welfare.”
In line with this, the Services and Supports for Persons with
Disabilities Act (Revised 2016) was established and enacted
introducing a system to provide services and supports at theexpense of beneficiaries. Persons with disabilities have the rightas a matter of course to receive services necessary to their daily
lives and their participation in society. These principles have beenrecognized internationally with the United Nations Declaration on
the Rights of Disabled Persons, the International Year of Disabled
Persons, and the subsequent Convention on the Rights of Persons
with Disabilities. However, the Japanese law made these persons“beneficiaries,” and began to seek payment for services andsupports provided. The inconsistent with the intent of theConvention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities was createdby this law.

26

The many who have gone before us have won these fundamental
human rights, and these values have become the norm for people
in general. However, we also learn from history that without
unceasing efforts, those rights may be stolen from us by people
and organizations in authority. Human rights can be maintainedand developed only by insisting on and practicing these rights with
our fellows in everyday lives.
Freedom Rights

thought and conscience (Article 19)
religion (20)choice and change of one s residence (22)prohibition of bondage (18)choice of occupation (13,22)

Social Rights

life (25)
education (26)
work (27)labor (28)

Political Rights

elections/suffrage (15, 44, 93)
petition (16)review (79)municipal voting (95)ratification of constitutional amendments(96)

Right to Pursuit ofrespected as individuals (Article 13)

Happiness

pursuit of happiness (13)privacy (13, 21, 35)

27

Right of Equality

equality of individual values (Article 13)
equal under the law (14)equality of the sexes (24)equality of votes (15, 44)

New Human Rights

life in peace (Preamble, Articles 9, 13)environment (13, 25)
to know (21)healthy life (13, 25)

Right to Claim

access to courts (32)redress from state (17)redress following acquittal (40)redress for loss (29)

Table1: Fundamental human rights ・ Rights and duties of people

As mentioned in the Preamble to the Code, we as interpreters will
work “in collaboration with each other and with all people insociety.” Then we can defend both fundamental human rights andthe rights guaranteed by the Constitution, making them our own,
and making possible the development of our lives, our regions,and our society.
Below is the summary of the operative values as well as the ideals
and principles of our work and activities as interpreters withreference to the Preamble and the following articles of the Code.
(Article 2 and beyond will be discussed on the pages that follow)

28

Values, Ideals, and Principles

Corresponding
Section of theCode of Ethics

Respect for Human Rights

Preamble,

Respect for Individual Dignity

Article 1

Concept of normalization (guarantee ofPreamble,human rights, social participation)

Article 1(Integration/Inclusion/Equal
opportunity/Quality of life/Cooperation)
Respect for Self-determination (Respect for

Article 2

Independence, Empowerment)
Duty of Confidentiality

Article 4

Respect for Privacy
Equality of Communication

Preamble,(Partnership, Cooperation)

Article 2

Verification

Article 6,

Prevention of Infringement of Rights

Article 3

Professional Improvement
Self-awareness

Article 6,
Article 3

Self-training

Improvement of Skills

Article 5,

Implementation and Improvement of

Article 2

Expertise
Maintenance of Social TrustPreamble,

Advocacy of Establishment as a Profession

Article 5,
Article 6

Active participation in development ofsystem, training for future interpreters,
29

Article 7research, and professional development
Social Contribution
Table2: Values, Ideals, and Principles for Sign Language Interpreters

2．Interpreters make sincere efforts to enable deaf people
to participate independently in all social activities andsituations by fully applying their professional skills andknowledge.
“Fully applying professional skills and knowledge”
In the section of “Duty and professionalism of Certified Sign
Language Interpreters” of“Report on Criteria to accredit

Certified Sign Language Interpreters (Tentative)” in 1988 by the
Measurement and Review Committee for accreditation criteria ofCertified Sign Language Interpreters of the Japanese Federationof the Deaf included the following on professional skills andknowledge required for sign language interpreters.
To assure smooth and reliable communication of deaf people,
interpreters must understand and convey the full range ofmessage in a manner which suits to the linguistic level ofparticipants and their varied way of communication. Interpreters
also need to provide information on the setting and situation sothat communication between hearing and deaf participants to be
conducted on an accurate and equal basis.

30

The function of interpreters is thus 1) to understand and mediate
communication involving deaf people, and 2) to provide
information needed for communication on equal footing between
deaf and hearing participants.
With respect to professional skills and knowledge of Certified Sign
Language Interpreters, the report states the following;
Interpreters must understand the various difficulties deaf people
encounter and still properly convey the message to deaf persons
even in the cases of:(i) interpreting to a deaf person who is not fully competent inJapanese,(ii) interpreting in socially or individually important and complex
situations where the communication needs to be establishedswiftly and accurately and(iii) interpreting in situations with many jargons such as at higher
or corporate education settings.
The cases (i) through (iii) above seem to assume a high level ofexpertise on the part of interpreters. Interpreters are also
expected to be skilled in interpreting in the fields of medical,
workplace, education, daily life, welfare, and social participation
etc.
The Report proposed that the above mentioned expertise to beassessed

in

a

“Sign

Language

Interpreter

Certification

Examination.” Written examination includes, basic knowledge of31

sign language, introduction to the study of sign language, life ofdeaf people, welfare and education for deaf people, linguistics ofsign language and the theory of sign language interpreting andpractical examination to evaluate interpreting skills in lecture,legal, medical, and arts situations. The successful candidates willtake interview examination.
Examination Subjects fromPresent Examination

1988 Report

Subjects

Written Examination

Written Examination

 Basic

knowledge

of

sign

 Basic knowledge of welfare

languagefor persons with disabilities

 Introduction to the study of Basic knowledge about deaf

sign language

people Linguistics of sign language

 Ethics

 Education of deaf children Japanese language

 Theoryofsignlanguageinterpretation
Practical Examination

Practical Examination

 Interpretation

various Voice-to-sign Interpretation,

situations. (Lecture, Legal,

Sign-to-voice Interpretation

Medical, and Art)

(TopicsinincludeLectures,

Discussion, Medical, Culture,
etc.)
Interview Examination―

Table3: Sign Language Interpreter Certification Examination

32

Professional skills and knowledge required for sign language
interpretation were set out as below in “Sign Language
Interpretation: Theory and Practice” (published in 1998, JapaneseFederation of the Deaf).
“System of professional skills and knowledge”

Figure 1&2: System of professional skills and knowledge, “Sign
Language Interpretation: Theory and Practice,” p. 12, 13

Training for Sign Language Interpreters and for Certified Sign
Language Interpreters is necessary for future interpreters toacquire these professional skills and knowledge.
33

The

2005

reportof“Understanding

thestatusquoofcommunication support for deaf people and restructuring project”
released by the Japanese Federation of the Deaf in March 2006
made the following suggestions for subjects to be included in the
training of Certified Sign Language Interpreters.*4*4. “Understanding the status quo of communication support
for deaf people and restructuring project” JapaneseFederation of the Deaf, p.66, 2006
Basic Subjects:
 Japanese Introductory Welfare for Persons with Disabilities
 Introduction to study of deaf persons
 Sign language Interpreting skills
 Theory of sign language interpretation
 Sign language interpreting skill practicumSpecialized Subjects:
 Introductory Sociology
 Introductory Law
 Introductory Medical
 Introductory Welfare Introductory Psychology
 Introductory Linguistics
 Sign language studies
 Theory of Communication34 Theory of Cross-cultural communication
 Theory of Counseling Cultural Anthropology
 Foreign Languages
 Theory of Interpretation
 Theory of Translation
 Information Processing
 Sign language interpretation practicum

etc.

Table4: Education Subjects for Sign Language Interpreters

The work of interpreters includes such fields as judiciary, election
broadcasting, higher education and medical which require a highlevel of expertise. As is shown in the remarks on professionalism
in the “Report on Criteria to accredit Certified Sign Language
Interpreters (tentative),” interpreting for those who are not fullycompetent in Japanese, for those who are uneducated, or those
suffer from dementia, as well as those who have mental andintellectual disabilities requires a high level of knowledge and skills.
These skills are necessary to interpret for deaf people who areelderly, very young, or foreign. The number of deaf students inuniversities (undergraduate or graduate programs) is increasing
and in these cases, interpreters need to have knowledge ofacademic terminology as well as a high degree of skills andknowledge of interpretation.
“Participation of deaf people in all activities and situations insociety”

35

The purpose behind putting to use the professional skills andknowledge of an interpreter is “to enable deaf people toparticipate independently in all situations in society.” The principleof “normalization” and measures for the well-being of persons
with disabilities have continued to develop since the InternationalYear of Disabled Persons. Continuous efforts to eliminate social
barriers have advanced the participation of deaf people in society.
As this participation has increased since International Year of
Disabled Persons, the demand for sign language interpreters hasgrown as well.
At present, most of those qualified as Certified Sign Language
Interpreters do not have stable employment conditions and are
unable to manifest their abilities to the full. Because there is little
training system for sign language interpreters in specialized fields,
there are not enough interpreters who can work in such fields as
academia, courts, or election broadcast.
There is a need to create environments in which deaf people canparticipate in all aspects of society.
“Independent participation of deaf people”
Published in 1979, Eiichi Takada and Toyoki Ando s “The History
and Ideals of Sign Interpretation in Japan” states that “it is correct
to say that sign language interpreters are cooperative workers
and helpers in creating social independence for deaf people, whichis to say the obtaining of freedom in social activities.”
36

“Creating social independence and freedom in social activities” isuniversal objectives for all. These are probably necessary
conditions connected to the “self-fulfillment” referred in thepreamble. A person is born into society, and lives, grows, learns,
works, and acts within a variety of social relations. The totality ofthese provides the conditions for social independence.
Self-fulfillment comes with the accumulation of what is learned
and experienced through a rich social life, including individual
relations. Those who face exclusion or discrimination are cut off
from society in a condition of severe deprivation. Their social
activity is limited, and they are forced into a situation where manysuch activities are closed to them.
Limited social activity means that the opportunity and ability tomake choices are taken away from them; in other words, they are
denied the ability to make their own decisions. The removal ofsocietal restrictions and the obtaining of freedom to act is aprocess by which they gain the power to make decisions.
Sign language interpreters participate in the process whereby
deaf people move toward greater richness in life by taking on
independent social activity.
This means that sign language interpreters should approach theirwork based on the principle of “empowerment”. *537

*5 In 2000 the International Federation of Social Workers
released its “Global Definition of Social Work,” and four
participating

Japaneseorganizations,

includingtheJapanese Association of Social Workers and the Japanese
Association of Certified Social Workers adopted theprecepts of this document for their own Code of Ethics.
The first half of this definition reads, “Social work is apractice-based profession...that promotes social change
anddevelopment,socialcohesion,

and

the

empowerment and liberation of people.”
This largely matches the ideals for sign language interpreters as
set out in the Takada-Ando paper.
“Empowerment” is an approach by which supporters aid those,
who are unable to develop or manifest their full capabilities due
to social restraint or limitation, to develop independence bydrawing out their innate potential so that they will be competent
to solve problems by themselves.
３ ． Interpreters endeavor to improve and enhance theirservicebyencouraging

personsinchargeattheirworkplaces or agencies to understand and observe the Codeof Ethics in order to establish favorable working conditions.
“Favorable working conditions”
What point of view is required for working conditions for sign38language interpreters to be described as “favorable”?
Sign language interpreters need to make efforts for the
improvement of working conditions so that they can work in ahealthy and safe environment with appropriate compensation.
One individual, of course, cannot achieve this alone; he/she needs
to proceed with measures taken in cooperation with workplacesuperiors and colleagues, local parties and relevant organizations
and families. The collaborative action includes lobbying for new
and amended laws and the improvement of national legal system
as well as for the allotment of adequate resources.
“To improve and enhance their service by encouraging
persons in charge at their workplaces or agencies tounderstand and observe the Code of Ethics”
Both employed and registered sign language interpreters havetheir own affiliated organizations and agencies. Currently, sign
language interpreting service is offered by prefectural andmunicipal level of government under various regulations andguidelines. Sing language interpreters carry a heavy burden andare sometimes subject to mental and physical insecurity, and the
supply of interpretation service does not meet demand.
In order to maintain the basic human rights of deaf and hearing
people who need the services of sign language interpretation, alegal structure and funds must first be arranged at the national
level. Then, the prefectural and municipal governments takeresponsibility to implement the service.
39

In order that the organizations and agencies which provide
interpreting service to have a clear understanding of sign
language interpretation and to offer the service adequately, sign
language interpreters need to make suggestions to improve theirworking conditions.
４ ． Interpreters shall not disclose information about any
participant learned in the course of duties, to any third party
without permission.
As sign language interpreters, along with any person in arecognized profession, come into contact with issues of individual,
corporate, or organizational secrecy or privacy among those they
serve, a strict duty of confidentiality is established as ethics ofprofessionals.
Sign language interpreters are involved with the secret andprivate matters of those who utilize their services. Information
obtained in the course of interpreting could include, for example,
an individual or family s medical problems or details of payment
fortreatment,

economicandfamily-relation

issuesinaconsultative or legal setting, a child s academic performance or
problematic behavior in school, a deaf employee s motivation,
attitude or an unjust employer response at work. In a police or
court setting, not only the details of an incident for someone
accused of a crime, but also personal information and criminal
record of the person will be discussed.

40

In these cases the interpreter will be privy to confidential
information.
The revelation of information about a corporation or organization
can lead to serious financial loss, and an interpreter who is
responsible for the revelation may face legal action.
Failure to maintain the duty of confidentiality also harms humanrights, and creates loss of trust. Proper respect for confidentiality,
however, will inspire trust on the part of the user and of society
at large, both of which are extremely important to the work ofsign language interpretation.
“Information about any participant learned in the course ofduties”
Interpreters must keep confidential "information about any
participant learned in the course of duties" but there are someconditions the information needs to be shared.
The sign language interpretation system is operated by the sign
language interpretation service agencies, which receive requests
for the service and dispatch registered sign language interpreters.
This means that sign language interpretation service takes placethrough the agencies, and that those interpreters do not usually
undertake assignments on an individual basis. When a request forinterpretation is received, information on the user and the natureof interpretation required is managed by the agencies. (Thesituation is different if an independent interpreter is directly asked41

to provide interpretation). Information on the interpretation isshared among the office staff who takes the request, theinterpreter dispatch coordinator, and the interpreter. It is
customary for the interpreter to file a report once the assignment
is complete, and information on the interpretation is also shared
this way.
In a case where social support other than interpretation isrequired, or when a social problem exists (for example violationsof human rights or anti-social actions between persons involved),
the agencies may hold a case meeting in which the interpreter will
be included. If the interpreter s report is not accurate and relevant,the problem and the harm caused may grow worse.
The permission of the person involved is required before
information on that person to be revealed to a third party(examples include welfare office caseworkers, public employment
bureau officials, teachers, doctors, or lawyers).
The revelation of private information to a third party without theagreement of the concerned person is permitted, if it is orderedby law or it is necessary for the protection of life or property. And
it also applies when it is indispensable for the improvement ofpublic health or the welfare of a child, or where there is a legal
obligation placed by state or other authorities requiring suchcooperation.
In these situations the decision will be made by the agencies
42rather than by the individual interpreter. However, in urgent cases
where it is not possible to contact the agency, the interpreter
should make an independent judgment in line with the provisionsof Articles 1 and 2 of the Code, and this judgment willsubsequently and promptly be reviewed as set out in Article 6.
The duty of confidentiality does not apply in such cases assuspected child abuse, which the interpreter is obliged to reportto a child guidance center as set out in Article 6 (Act on thePrevention, etc. of Child Abuse), or abuse of a person withdisability (Act on the Prevention of Abuse of Persons with
Disabilities and Support for Caregivers, Articles 7, 16, and 22).
５ ． Interpreters

continually

strivetoimprove

theirprofessional skills and knowledge.
In the above explanation of Article 2, we discussed about
professional expertise and skills required for sign language
interpreters. Here we will consider how that may be achieved.
The following three organizations at present conduct advancetrainings for Certified Sign Language Interpreters.
〇

Japanese Association of Sign Language Interpreters/JASLI（General Incorporated Association):
Workshop for Certified Sign Language Interpreters (Ethics,
Technique for Social Welfare Assistance, Education, Medical,
Employment, Law, Election Broadcast)43〇National Center of Sign Language Education(Social Welfare

Service Corporation):
Workshops for practicing Certified Sign Language Interpreters(Education, Welfare, Medical, Law, Employment, Participatory
Rights, sign language interpreting skills)〇

College of the National Rehabilitation Center for Persons

with Disabilities:
Professional Workshop for Certified Sign Language Interpreters(sign language interpretation skills, sign language linguistics,
Ethics, Deaf culture, etc.)
Interpreters participate in these workshops in a continuous
process of study. In the future, when undergraduate and graduate
programs for sign language education are in place, or when JASLI
matures as a professional body, it should be necessary tosystematize advanced professional trainings, including specialized
training, ongoing education (post-graduate education), andsupervisory and management training.
６ ． Interpreters are responsible for the verification that
their skills and knowledge are not used for violation ofhuman rights, nor for any anti-social purpose.
The work of sign language interpreters must be subject to bothindividual and organizational review, the results of which will be
used for the improvement of future interpretation work. In Article
4, we discussed the duty of confidentiality to prevent possible
44

violations of human rights. Interpreters must also ensure that
their activities pose no threat to the other rights, lives, or propertyof those they serve.
“Violation of human rights, anti-social purposes”
Violations of human rights or the serving of anti-social purposes
may be either deliberate or accidental. Unwitting actions may
results in violation of human rights and encourage anti-social
activities.
Deliberate violations of human rights or the serving of anti-social
purposes can include such fraudulent business practices as baitand-switch or pyramid sales, along with high-pressure cultindoctrination or spirituality sales, in which victims are duped into
paying high prices for items guaranteed to bring a good fortune
or forced to make a large donation.
Dealers in these schemes are skilled in hiding their intent as they
approach consumers. A deaf consumer may arrange a sign
language interpreter by himself/herself, but there are times thedealers contact to a public interpreter dispatch service office andrequest an interpreter to be sent out.
In the sign language interpretation system, an agency should, atthe time of request, make a judgment whether it should be
accepted. In such cases it is vital that the agency is fully aware ofthese dealers, the method of sales, and the harm that may result.
45

It is important to have a network among the agencies in the same
area to share information.
However, it is inevitable that some dubious requests slip throughand the requests are sent to the registered interpreters. With theprovisions of Article 6 of the Code in mind, the interpreter shouldmake ethically appropriate decisions, at the time of request fromthe agency, during and after the assignment and make full reports
to the agency.
In order to prevent harm to deaf consumers, the agencies are
expected to take the following measures as responsibilities of sign
language interpreter dispatch service providers;① to provide information and conduct trainings on consumer
damage caused by fraudulent business to the registeredinterpreters,② to have a system that would allow the interpreters tocommunicate with the agency if any problem arises at theassignment, and③ to share the incident among the agency, the interpreters, andrelevant organization such as the consumer affairs bureau toprevent a recurrence and to relieve the victims.
Cases of unwitting violation of human rights may occur in
specialized fields such as legal and medical interpretation. Thiscan be caused by such factors as ① insufficient knowledge of
specialized terminology used in these fields, or ② lack of proper
awareness of rules or procedures, or of professional functions or46

ethical practice.
① Insufficient knowledge of specialized terminology makes
accurate interpretation difficult and brings disadvantages to deaf
persons as accuracy is the most important aspect of interpretation
in medical and legal fields. Sign language interpreters need toknow their own capacities and to decline the requests if theirknowledge and skill are not enough for this kind of interpretation.
② The legal field, in particular, requires “a professional level ofknowledge

concerning

its

various

rules

and

associatedprocedures.” Sign language interpreters must ascertain in
advance under what situation the interpretation is to take place,and the circumstances of the people among whom theinterpretation is being conducted. It is necessary to understandthe relationship between accuser and accused, and the different
functions of police, prosecutors, court officials, and defense
lawyers.
“Verification”
As we mentioned above, interpreters may become involved inproblems concerning human rights or anti-social activities.
Attempts at personal judgment in the absence of knowledge andbackground information can result in violations of human rights.
To avoid this, sign language interpreters need ability to makeappropriate judgement by considering the causes and thecharacteristics of human rights violation and anti-social activities.
47

It is important for interpreters to always review and examine thecases of interpretation.
To do this, it should be conducted by groups or organizations. As
a responsibility of interpreter dispatch service providers, agencies
need to undertake the reviewing process of assignments (casemeetings on a practical base, internal staff trainings, workshops
and information sharing for registered interpreters).
The

issuescanbereviewed

with

due

consideration

toconfidentiality of personal information at the meeting of local
registered interpreters and/or at the case reviewing workshops
conducted by regional offices of National Research Association for
Sign Language Interpretation (Zen-Tsu-Ken) and JASLI.
７．Interpreters actively engage in research and practices
which enhance the development of the sign language
interpretation system and interpreter training.
Engagement in research and practices for the developmentof sign language interpretation system
The need for research and practices that enhance and develop thesign language Interpretation system has been described in our
discussions of Articles 1, 2, and 3, but this system still remains
inadequate in Japan.
In concrete terms, the establishment of a public sign language
interpretation system unifying training, certification, employment,48

dispatch, and advanced training for sign language interpreters isdesired. To this end, issues with current regulations and systems
need to be clarified and to be improved with appropriate researchand practices. JASLI holds “annual conference on sign language
interpretation” and issues research bulletins.
In the future, there is likely to be a need to establish a statequalification for sign language interpreters through the passage
andenactmentof anindividual“Act

on Sign Language

Interpreters”-type law. It will also be necessary laws in welfare
and related fields to be amended to require relevant organizations
to employ interpreter(s) and/or use interpreter dispatch service.
It is our responsibilities to work with relevant people and parties
on the research and practice which will enhance and develop sign
language interpretation system.
Engagement in research and practice to develop theinterpreter training for future interpreters
Unfortunately, the current training system for Certified Sign
Language Interpreters is far from adequate. Many candidates areunable to pass the certification examination, and the number ofCertified Sign Language Interpreters is hardly increasing. At thesame time, much is expected of those who are qualified, and forthese the burden of work is excessive. It is necessary that those
who are qualified as Certified Sign Language Interpreters realizethat they are the only ones who can provide education and49

training for those who will come after them.
Our ongoing consistent participation in research and practiceconcerning the education and training of interpreters enable everimproving service and its consequential societal appreciation as
profession.

50

51

Appendix: A chronological table of Sign Language
Interpretation system in JapanYear

Deaf Rights

National Actions

Movement
1947

Establishment ofJapanese Federationof the Deaf (JFD)

1950

Proposal of “Toward
workers who can sign”
by JFD President
Toshifumi Fujimoto

1963

First sign language
group (Circle) formedin Kyoto

1968

The 1st National
meeting of JSL
Interpreters

1970

The first full-time sign

Training for sign language

language interpretervolunteers starts based on

employed in Kyoto

Physically Disabled Persons
Welfare Act

1973

Act on Welfare of Physically
Disabled Persons
Local governments start tohire sign language
interpreters
52

Year

Deaf Rights

National Actions

Movement
1973

Sign language supporters at
Public Employment Service

1974

Establishment of
National Research
Association for Sign
Language
Interpretation (ZenTsu-Ken)

1976

Sign language volunteer
interpreter dispatch
program starts based on
Physically Disabled Persons
Welfare Act

1979

Training program for sign
language interpreter
instructors starts

1981

94th Regular Diet Session
adopts petition on
systematization of Sign
Language Interpretation

1982

Inauguration of Committee
to Investigate Systemizationof Sign Language
Interpretation (JFD, under
the auspices of the Ministryof Health and Welfare)
53

Year

Deaf Rights

National Actions

Movement
1985

JFD submits Report on
Investigation of

1985

Systematization of Sign
Language Interpretation to
Ministry of Health andWelfare1985

Distribution of “I Love
Communication” pamphlet
begins

1986

Inauguration of Reviewing
Committee for accreditation
criteria of Certified Sign
Language Interpreters (JFD,
under the auspices of
Ministry of Health andWelfare)1988

JFD submits Report on
Criteria of Certified Sign
Language Interpreters(Tentative) to Ministry of
Health and Welfare

1989

Establishment of Sign
Language Interpreter
Certification Examination
system and the firstexamination was conducted
54

Year

Deaf Rights

National Actions

Movement
1990

Institutionalization ofInformation Center for
persons with hearing and/or
visual impairment based on
the amendment of
Physically Disabled Persons
Welfare Act

1990

Department of sign
language interpreting
established at National
Rehabilitation Center for
Persons with Disabilities

1991

Foundation ofJapanese Associationof Sign Language
Interpreters (JASLI)

1995

Municipal-level projects topromote social participation
starts based on Physically
Disabled Persons Welfare
Act
Beginning of Sign Language
interpretation of election
broadcasts (partial
coverage, House ofCouncilors)
55

Year

Deaf Rights

National Actions

Movement
1996“Project for everyday life
training for persons withdisabilities andcommunication support”
and “project for training anddispatch service of sign
language interpreters”
added to the list of selective
projects of “Brighter Future
for persons with disabilities”
program based on
Physically Disabled Persons
Welfare Act

1997“Code of Ethics for
Certified Sign
Language
Interpreters"
established andadopted at 8th JASLIAnnual Meeting

1998

Ministry of Health andWelfare establishes“Training Curriculum for
Sign Language Volunteers
and Sign Language
Interpreters”
56

Year

Deaf Rights

National Actions

Movement
2000

Revised Social Welfare Act
declares Sign Language
Interpretation Type 2 Social
Welfare Service

2002

Social Welfare
Corporation National
Center of Sign

2002

Language Education
established2006

Community Life Support
Service clause of Services
and Supports for Persons
with Disabilities Act takes
effect, requiring
municipalities to provide
sign language interpreter
dispatch services

2010

Distribution of “We

Plaintiffs and lawyers reachLovebasic agreement with

Communication”

Ministry of Health andpamphlet begins

Welfare over lawsuit re(Headquarters toconstitutionality of Services

Promote Reform ofand Supports for Persons

the Systems for deafwith Disabilities Act

persons)

57

Year

Deaf Rights

National Actions

Movement
2011

Pamphlet, “The Sign

Basic Act for the Persons

Language Act for All”

with Disabilities revised toinclude “sign language” indefinition of “language”

2013

Community Life Support
Service clause of Revised
Services and Supports for
Persons with Disabilities Act
takes effect, requiring
municipalities to provide
training for communication
support workers (dispatchof sign language
interpreters and notetakers
as well.

2013

Prefectures required toprovide training anddispatch for those amongcommunication support
staff with a high degree ofprofessionalism, along withexpansion of coordination
among municipalities in the
dispatch of communication
support workers.

58

Year

Deaf Rights

National Actions

Movement2013

Tottori Prefecture enacts
nation s first sign language
ordinance

2014

Ratification of Convention
on the Rights of Persons
with Disabilities

2016

Act for Eliminating
Discrimination Against
People with Disabilities andAct on Employment
Promotion, etc. of Persons
with Disabilities goes into
effect59

A Study Guide on the Code of Ethics for Certified Sign
Language Interpreters (Translated in part)
PublishedbyJapanese

Association

of

Sign

Language

Interpreters (JASLI) in 2018, translated in 2019Japanese Association of Sign Language Interpreters (JASLI)
Address :Maison Bunkyo Sekiguchi 805
1-7-5, Sekiguchi, Bunkyo-ku,
112-0014, Tokyo, JapanMail:j-syuwatuyakusi@crocus.ocn.ne.jp

URL:http://www.jasli.jp/

Facebook:日本手話通訳士協会国際委員 Japanese Associationof Sign Language Interpreters JASLIAll rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced
in any form or by any means without the prior writtenconsent of the publisher, excepting brief quotes used inreviews.
Printed in Japan60

一般社団法人
日本手話通訳士協会