Workshop (29.06.2021, 09:00-13:00 CEST)

Chair: Prof. Dr. Martina Bajčić

Speakers: Ana Ostroški Anić, Colin D. Robertson, Emilia Mišćenić

1. Abstract(s)

Introduction (Martina Bajčić)

Introduction into the workshop with emphasis on the role of terminology in lawmaking within the multilingual EU context. Participants will be provided with an overview of state-of-the-art terminology approaches and learn about the ins and outs of EU lawmaking from both the legal and linguistic perspective.  

The Principles of Multilingual Terminology Work (Ana Ostroški Anić)

Participants will learn about the basics of terminology work in multilingual settings, including the organization of conceptual systems, defining concepts and finding equivalent terms in different languages. They will also discuss the role of experts in quality assurance and terminology verification. Examples will be based on current topics. 

Looking at EU Legislative Texts from a Terminology Perspective (Colin D. Robertson)

This presentation takes a look at EU legislative texts from a terminology perspective and is based on legal-linguistic practitioner experience in EU institutions. It structures information around the concept of ‘communication’: (a) drafting, which involves attention to EU legal context, treaty powers, type and structure of the act, standard clauses and guidance; (b) translation which involves interpreting the draft, creating a translation text, checking terminology, creating new terms with the help of terminologists; (c) J/L review, adoption and publication of the multilingual legal act; (d) interpretation and action by users, including transposition into national legal systems (cf. intra-lingual translation), multilingual interpretation by the EU Court of Justice (message, legal meaning). Terminology questions arise at each stage in EU multilingual law-making. 

The Implementation and Consistent Interpretation of EU Terminology by the Member States (Emilia Mišćenić)

This presentation investigates to what extent legal terminology and translation affect the substance of EU law and national laws of respective Member States. Once transposed and implemented into the national legal acts of the Member States, certain EU legal terms cause a line of issues related to proper interpretation and application of legal institutions and rules. By illustrating examples from EU directives and national legal provisions, this talk looks into the legal consequences which can arise from improper understanding, interpretation and application of EU legal terms in the Member States’ national legal surroundings.  

2. Time schedule

09:00 – 9:15 CEST
Martina Bajčić – Introduction

09:15 – 10:15 CEST
Ana Ostroški Anić – The Principles of Multilingual Terminology Work

10:15 – 11:35 CEST
Colin D. Robertson – Looking at EU Legislative Texts from a Terminology Perspective

[+ 10’ break]

11:45 – 12:45 CEST
Emilia Mišćenić – The Implementation and Consistent Interpretation of EU Terminology by the Member States

12: 45 – 13:00 CEST
Martina Bajčić – Wrap up / Discussion 

3. Recommended literature

Bajčić, M.; Martinović, A. (2018): A Mutual Learning Exercise in Terminology and Multilingual Law. In: Marino S., Biel Ł., Bajčić M., Sosoni V. (eds.) Language and Law. Springer, Cham, pp. 207-223.

Mišćenić, E. (2016): Legal Translation vs. Legal Certainty in EU Law. In: Mišćenić E., Raccah A. (eds) Legal Risks in EU Law. Springer, Cham, pp. 87-107.

Robertson, C. (2011): Multilingual Legislation in the European Union. EU and National Legislative-Language Styles and Terminology. In: Research in Language 9 (1), pp. 51-67.