Literary translators in the Netherlands and Flanders are in an increasingly vulnerable position in the labour market. Factors such as the dominance of English, rising sales of foreign-language titles and the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) have a significant impact on their already precarious situation. This is according to a qualitative study conducted by the Boekman Foundation on behalf of the Expertise Centre for Literary Translation (ELV).
The research focused on literary translators' experiences of financial uncertainty surrounding the work itself and rapid developments within the field. Special attention was paid to the impact of AI, changes in the publishing world and training structures on practice. The researchers spoke to translators, teachers and publishers, each of whom, from their own roles, attach great importance to high-quality literature.
AI and literary translations
Although technology is developing rapidly and the quality of machine translation has improved significantly in recent years, all stakeholders agree that AI is currently not (yet) suitable for translating literary texts. The complexity and creative process involved in literary translation require the nuance and interpretation of a human translator.
The study highlights the importance of joint agreements on the role of AI in the translation process. With the shared premise of high-quality titles, translators, publishers and educators can work together to create a working environment in which the position of translators is strengthened and the quality of literary translation is safeguarded.
Financial uncertainty
A recurring theme in the focus group discussions is the financial side of the translation profession. Translators express concerns about the low income relative to the time invested and the uncertainty that comes with being self-employed. One respondent put it as follows: "You never have security."
Publications
The results of the study have been published in two articles:
- Article 1: 'The practice of translation' by Stefanie Liebreks
- Article 2: "The working field of literary translators" by Felicia van Andel
Both articles are available for download since this week on the website From the Boekman Foundation.
Following the survey and the winter issue Bookman 141 Europe and Culture Flemish Dutch Culture House deBuren is organising on Thursday 13 February A two-part discussion evening in Brussels. Writers, scholars and translators exchange views on the future of (translated) literature in the European context. A conversation with literary translators Lies Lavrijsen and Rokus Hofstede.
About the Literary Translation Expertise Centre
The ELV is committed to professionalising literary translators and promoting the quality of literary translation in the Netherlands and Flanders. More information can be found at
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