International Translation Day, celebrated annually on September 30th, was established by the United Nations in 2017 to recognize the crucial role that professional translators, interpreters, and language workers play in fostering communication, understanding, and cooperation between nations and cultures. The day is celebrated on the feast of St. Jerome, the patron saint of translators, who translated the Bible into Latin, and is a tribute to the importance of translation in maintaining linguistic diversity and preserving cultural heritage.

Translation and interpretation are essential for diplomacy, international relations, education, business, and access to information. Translators and interpreters enable people who speak different languages to understand each other, making it possible to share knowledge, resolve conflicts, and build bridges between cultures. International Translation Day highlights the importance of language professionals in ensuring that everyone, regardless of language barriers, can participate in global discussions and decision-making processes.

Each year, International Translation Day focuses on a specific theme related to translation and multilingualism, such as promoting linguistic diversity, supporting translation for peace, or enhancing access to information in multiple languages. On this day, translators, interpreters, and language organizations hold events, seminars, and workshops to celebrate the profession and raise awareness of the challenges and opportunities within the translation industry.

The day serves as a reminder of the power of language to connect people across borders and the essential role that translators play in facilitating global communication and cooperation.