The FSF Europe is an international organisation. Our target is to reach as many people as possible and include them in our activities. To achieve this, we want to make our published texts available in several languages.
A major part of translation effort applies to the web pages, especially the continuously updated pages like the start page, the news page or the events page. Special info about how to help with web page translations can be found on the web translators info page.
But not only web pages have to be translated. Press releases, newsletters, brochures and other texts also become more wide-spread with every additional language they are available in.
Although, depending on the author, texts are originally written in different languages, we generally use English as the starting point for further translations. Therefore, we especially need contributions in:
Experience shows that the best translation results are achived when people translate from a foreign language to their mother tongue. Also, it might be a good idea to read through the "About us" section to get a general idea of the concepts and values behind the FSFE.
For some languages, there is a List of frequently used terms with their respective translations available.
Translations are generally coordinated on the translators mailing list. Everybody wanting to contribute to translation efforts can subscribe here.
Texts to be translated or proofread are sent to this list along with a reference to the desired languages. Whoever starts with a translation sends an answer to the list to avoid duplicate work. Finished translations are also sent to the list to allow others to proofread the translation and propose possible improvements. Both original texts and translations are usually sent around as plain text file attachments to minimize copy and paste efforts.
Ideally, the translation team for a specific language has several members that relieve and support each other, so translations to that language do not depend on a single person.
Translating and proofreading texts is a precious contribution to the work of the FSF Europe and an excellent chance to spontaneously take part in the activities of the FSF Europe without long-term obligations.