Translating European Union law : an innovative way of looking at translation theories

Abstract

The paper discusses whether traditional translation theories can be applied to the translation of European Union (EU) law. It will start by explaining EU multilingualism. Then, from the law, the discussion moves to translation techniques and whether they can apply to EU law. Then, the role of the Court of Justice of the European Union is discussed within the context of harmonisation of European Union law. Will the theological approach carry the day, or will the literal approach be the norm? The paper concludes with a discussion on using a lingua franca as a working language and the effect of Euro-English.