International Translation Day

Categories:: Special Interest
Tags:: Career Work
Where:: International
Date change rule:: Every September 30
Holiday emoji:: 🗣️

International Translation Day celebrates the indispensable work of translators and language professionals every September 30. Their tireless efforts ensure clear communication across borders, fostering peace and mutual understanding. Join us in recognizing these vital contributors to global diplomacy and cultural exchange.

History
Timeline
FAQs
Importance
Observe
Related

History of International Translation Day

Ever since the inception of the U.N., translators have played a great role in bringing all 51 founding nations on the same page. The United Nations recognizes that all civilizations and their respective cultures are crucial enablers of sustainable development.

The U.N. recognizes the work of professional translation as an art and a trade. Translators uphold the charter of the United Nations and deserve global appreciation. Through the resolution adopted in the United Nations General Assembly on May 24, 2017, every September 30 is celebrated as International Translation Day. The day is dedicated to honoring the role of language professionals in fostering peace, development, and camaraderie between linguistically distinct nations.

International Translation Day also coincides with the feast day of St. Jerome, a priest, and scholar who is credited with the first translation of the Bible. Thousands of years ago, St. Jerome embarked on a journey to translate the Bible from Hebrew into Latin. St. Jerome is called the patron saint of translators for his efforts to make the Bible accessible to a far wider audience.

We celebrate International Translation Day by raising awareness of professional translation and being mindful of the fact that the fusion of languages reflects the strength of a united world stemmed in diversity.

International Translation Day timeline

1945

The Establishment of the U.N.

The United Nations is established with 51 founding members after the dissolution of the League of Nations.

1946

Five Official Languages

English, French, Russian, Spanish, and Chinese, are adopted as the official languages of the United Nations.

1948

Universal Declaration of Human Rights

The U.N. adopts a universal declaration of human rights, encouraging respect for human rights regardless of race, sex, language, or religion.

2017

International Translation Day

The U.N. announces September 30 as International Translation Day to honor language professionals all around the world.

International Translation Day FAQs

When is International Translation Day?

International Translation Day 2026 falls on Wednesday, September 30, celebrating the vital work of language professionals worldwide.

How many languages are spoken worldwide?

There are approximately 7,100 languages spoken around the world today, though this number is constantly changing due to language loss and discovery. Only about 23 languages account for half the world’s population.

What is the global translation industry worth?

The global language services market, which includes translation, interpreting, and localization, was valued at roughly $60 billion in 2025. It continues to grow as businesses expand into international markets.

Why is September 30 chosen for International Translation Day?

September 30 was chosen because it is the feast day of Saint Jerome, the patron saint of translators. He is renowned for his work translating the Bible into Latin, known as the Vulgate.

How To Celebrate International Translation Day

Learn a new language
You don’t need a fancy coursebook or an expensive mentor to learn a new language. This September 30, just use the tons of free resources available on the internet and kick-start your dream of being a polyglot.
Promote multiculturalism
There’s beauty in diversity and opportunity in our differences. September 30 is the perfect day to promote ethnic diversity through clothing, food, and traditions.
Call up an estranged friend
Take inspiration from the translators who fill the communication gap between two distinct cultures and resolve your personal issues with an estranged person.

5 Facts About The English Language That Will Blow Your Mind

What the U.S. ignores, 67 other countries claim
67 countries have recognized English as an official language, and the United States is not one of those.
Britain has bragging rights, not birthright
Britain did not invent English, it was introduced to them by the Germanic people.
English packs a hefty punch
The English language has the most number of words — totaling around 250,000.
Somehow, it still ain’t complete
The English dictionary sees the addition of 4,000 new words each year, making it the most evolving language in the world.
Because English can go rogue
Unlike Russian, French, or any other major language, English has no guiding institution that can control its evolution.

Why International Translation Day is Important

Every culture deserves global respect
It is an honor to see your culture and language have representation on the global stage. Rather than forcing world leaders to abandon their language, translators lend their intellect and polyglot wisdom to honor their mother tongue.
The dialogue must never stop
Global peace relies on our abilities to put our differences aside and come together for a common cause. Translators bridge the gap between two different entities. On the global stage, language is a barrier. Thanks to our tireless and underappreciated translators, we can overcome it.
It’s a great career choice
In an increasingly globalized world, there are tons of job opportunities for translators. If you are seeking a pivot from your career and can speak more than one language, then the translation industry needs you.