The translator, long considered a mere functionary in the production of books, is now much more likely to be recognized as the co-creator of a new text in another language. Nevertheless, too many misunderstandings, infringements, and abuses still occur.
Unauthorized translations appear, particularly in the alternative press and literary magazines.
The practice of publishers obtaining exclusive translation rights for an unlimited period of time has held certain foreign works prisoner to poor or dated translations. Translation is an intrinsically collaborative undertaking, and a successful translation can be created only when each party assumes its responsibility and respects the rights of the others. To this end, the following suggestions are offered, with the recognition that exceptional cases occur in which these guidelines are not entirely applicable. The publication of an unauthorized translation of a copyrighted work, for whatever reason, is piracy and an injustice to the author. The Committee recommends that in all cases the prospective translator thoroughly investigate who controls the translation rights and obtain written permission, if necessary, from the copyright holder.