TRANSLATING THE IUCN VALORIZATION STUDY OF LAKE OHRID: STANDARDIZING ALBANIAN FOR ENHANCED BILATERAL COLLABORATION BETWEEN NORTH MACEDONIA AND ALBANIA

Abstract

This study explores the translation process of a valorization report on Lake Ohrid, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Monument of Nature, from English to Albanian. The report, conducted by IUCN experts, highlights Lake Ohrid, one of Europe’s oldest and deepest lakes, shared by North Macedonia and Albania. Accurate translation is essential for effective bilateral cooperation in preserving this unique ecosystem. The 2021 translation of this document, completed by Associate Professor Dr. Iris Klosi, one of the authors of this research, involves not only linguistic challenges but also the precise conveyance of complex ecological, cultural, and scientific information that underscores the lake's significance.
The study highlights key issues encountered during the translation, such as the need to maintain technical accuracy while ensuring the text remains accessible to a broader audience, including policymakers, environmentalists, and the local population in both countries. It also examines the challenges of translating culturally specific terms and concepts related to the lake’s historical and ecological importance. Additionally, the translation process required careful consideration of terminological consistency, particularly in scientific descriptions of the lake’s biodiversity, geology, and hydrology.
A significant focus of this research is the effort to use standardized Albanian for both Albanians in North Macedonia and Albania. This standardization aims to establish a common ground of understanding in official documents, particularly in bilateral agreements, ensuring that the use of terms is consistent and unambiguous across both countries. The research discusses the strategies employed to address these challenges, such as the use of parallel texts, consultation with subject matter experts, and the adaptation of terminology to fit the Albanian linguistic and cultural context without losing the original meaning.
The translation's impact on public awareness and conservation efforts is also assessed, considering how the translated document contributes to a shared understanding between North Macedonia and Albania. In conclusion, the study underscores the importance of high-quality, standardized translation in environmental preservation, where accurate communication of information is vital for successful international cooperation and the sustainable management of natural heritage sites like Lake Ohrid