Database of Algerian Translators

Within the framework of assessing the state of translation in Algeria from 1962 to 2015, initiated by the Research Unit in Translation and Terminology (URTT), the present team proposes the creation of a “Database of Algerian Translators.” This initiative addresses two main concerns:

First: Translation in Algeria has been quantitatively limited to 814 works (from 1978 to 2007) and has been confined to a small and specific group of profiles. This situation raises questions about the transfer of knowledge produced in other languages into Arabic and the focus of preferred fields. It also requires identifying national competencies in the field of translation according to their disciplines and the languages practiced from 1962 to 2016.Second: This “database” is part of the statutory objectives of the Unit.

Key outcomes of the database:

It will highlight Algerian translators and make their work visible and accessible.It will serve as a practical tool for scholars interested in the field of translation, whether national or international, accessible online and in print, with potential updates every two years.

Some key characteristics underline the importance of this project:

A translator will be included in the database based on the criterion of translation output, namely books or articles, which are considered only if published in recognized academic journals.Translation in Algeria lags significantly behind other Arab countries. On average, Algeria translates 29 books per year, compared to 80–100 in Morocco and 60–70 in Tunisia. Compared to Germany, the world’s leading translating country, Algeria’s contribution is negligible; even Spain alone translates more than all 22 Arab countries combined.Translation has played a central role for centuries in the development of cultures worldwide, enriching languages, developing societies, and producing and circulating knowledge and imagination. It is a space where a fascinating dialogue between different languages and cultures takes place.Lawrence Venuti describes translation as primarily a cultural operation, in which the translator’s cultural knowledge in both the source and target languages is essential for proper translation. This requires formal training in translation and translation studies, along with linguistic mastery of the target language. In Algeria, this is further complicated by multilingualism.Finally, many Algerian translators, including Djilali Khelass, Abou Laid Doudou, Said Boutadjine, Mohamed Sari, Inam Bioud, Abdelhamid Benhadouga, Rachid Boudjedra, and others, remain largely unknown, whether living or deceased. This database will enhance the visibility and recognition of their contributions.