Mastering a language is just the first step in becoming a good interpreter.
The United Nations has six official languages which are the English , Spanish , French , Chinese , Russian , and Arabic . The organization edits and publishes documents in all UN official languages , but generally uses English and French for internal communication. The other languages are used during discussions in the Regional Commissions. Mastering a language is just the first step in becoming a good interpreter. In a UN guide aimed at those looking to become linguistic experts , the job appears to be a mix of a diplomat, engineer, and traffic driver. “ A good translator knows the techniques for dealing with difficult situations, has nerves of steel, doesn't freak out, and can keep up with fast speakers ”, says the guide. In 1946, English and French were the only working languages. Due to the United Nations General Assembly all six official languages have become working languages too. The majority of speakers at the United Nations communicate in one of six official lan...